While Dillon Boucher's (196-F-75) name appears on the free agents list, Boucher agreed to a new one-year contract at around the same time the free agents list was distributed.

With six of the Championship roster confirmed as returning, and power forward BJ Anthony released from his contract, the SKYCITY Breakers have four roster spots remaining. These include the import player positions of Cedric Jackson and Gary Wilkinson, and local swing man Leon Henry.

When you have a Champion group like we have, you want to do everything you can to keep them together, said SKYCITY Breakers General Manager Richard Clarke.

I think everyone is aware of Cedrics NBA ambitions, we are definitely supporting him in trying to achieve that dream but also will do everything we can to have him as a Breaker again next season if he isnt in the NBA. We have already been in contact with Cedrics agents and will keep working towards that, said Clarke.

We have also put an offer to Gary and his agent, and would also love to see Gary back for a third season. We have to balance his role with Alexs development, but we have put an offer to Gary and should know how he wants to proceed over the next week.

Leon has made good contributions this season and is definitely in the mix to come back. We are talking with Leon and his agent currently also.

The final roster position will likely be for a back-up guard role, and final decisions on that position will be made after reviewing the free agents list and performances of local players in the New Zealand NBL.

There are some quality local players in the mix for the final roster position, Josh Bloxham is coming off a good season for us and has the opportunity to impress for Nelson, and Jarrod Kenny also spent time with us over the season and is performing well for Hawkes Bay. Lindsay Tait is as impressive as ever, and Corey Webster will also come back into the equation, said Clarke.

After a long week of waiting, the Townsville Crocs can breath a sigh of relief as their favorite son, Peter Crawford (193-G/F-79), has re-signed with the club for the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons.

Last week Crocs CEO Ian Smythe had said that Crawford had priced himself out of Townsville after he had advised the club he wanted a multi year deal. But after a week of talks both parties have come to an agreement that will keep the 2005 most improved player in Townsville.

Crawford had one of the best seasons of his career last year, averaging 14.8ppg, 1.1spg, 3.2rpg. He shot 40% from three point land and 83% from the charity stripe.

Courtesy of http://andthefoul.net

Glen Saville to sign on for 19th campaign; Hawks also keep Davidson, Martin and Coenraad - by Eurobasket News

Two-time Olympian Glen Saville (197-F/G-76) has decided to play on with the Wollongong Hawks for a remarkable 19th season.A veteran of 545 NBL games, Saville confirmed he was in negotiations with the Hawks for the 2012-13 season.

Ive indicated I want to continue to play so I had a meeting with [coach] Gordie [McLeod] to talk about a whole range of things - from the NBL points system and salary cap and what he plans to do with the team, Saville said.

From my point of view, I want to continue to play and we just have to work out something at the negotiating table.

Savilles point production (6.3 per game) in 2011-12 was his lowest since his rookie season.

But the 36-year-old was the Hawks leading rebounder (5.8) and also handed out 2.6 assists per game.

Asked if it was good news for the club that Saville was keen to continue, Wollongong coach Gordie McLeod said: Definitely. Hes been a major part of the club for a lot of years. His role has been changing because his games changed.

Obviously hes had to do things differently as his body and his athleticism dont let him do things hes done in the past. Hes still been effective with his production on the court.

If Saville does return he will almost certainly take the captaincy reins from recently retired Hawk Mat Campbell.

Wollongong finished eighth last season, narrowly avoiding the wooden spoon after winning their final three games.

The teams obviously changing with Mat retiring, Saville said.

When you have a season like we did last season theres a chance there could be changes, and itll certainly be a different look for the team without Mat at that shooting guard position. Hes been there for 17 years.

I was still deciding after the season about my future. I wanted to have a rest mentally and physically and think about what I wanted to do. Ive indicated I want to keep playing.

Saville would not be drawn into speculation about a possible 20th season.

At this stage of my career Id say therell be no multi-year contracts, so Ill cross that bridge when I come to it, the 2001 grand final MVP said.

Ive won a grand final and appeared in grand finals and semi-finals, but I havent been to the play-offs for a few years and Id really like to be a part of a team to be able to do that again. That should be a realistic goal for the team. Id certainly love to have another crack at it.

We are extremely happy at having such a talented player in Cameron join our team, said Cairns head coach Aaron Fearne . His ability around the basket and to put pressure on teams defensive rotations will greatly benefit the way we want to play the game.

Tragardh said he couldnt wait to suit up for the Snakes.

Im very excited about the opportunity to join a great organization in Cairns, said Tragardh. It is definitely the best situation for me to develop my game at this point in my career. Im looking forward to working with the coaching staff and bringing my strengths to an already very talented and hard working team.

A realistic league MVP candidate the past few seasons Trigger will join the Taipans team with the same goal in mind as the club. That is to work as hard as possible to bring a championship to the Orange Army, something that has so far eluded both the club and player.

When speaking about what it will take both on and off the court Tragardh was honest in his opinions.

Off the court things are great in Cairns, Ive really noticed in recent years the growth in community support. It is fantastic up there and I cant wait to get amongst the people of Cairns and embrace it.

On the court the team is putting together the right pieces of the puzzle but Tragardh understands the demands that will be placed on him by Fearne.

I know Fearny will get the best of me at both ends of the floor but he is very focused on the defensive end. I feel like with any scorer there are always questions raised at the defensive end, but Im confident in doing whats needed at either end to help the team win.

Tragardh is currently playing for the Eltham Wildcats in the Big V and will commence Taipans duties in July. He will join Cameron Gliddon (195-G-89) as the first two new signings for the Taipans for 2012-13.

While reachin the ABL Finals for the fourth consecutive season the Gmunden Swans are already working on next seasons roster. The Austrian powerhouse signed U20 national team player Carlos Novas Mateo these days. Mateo spent the last season at Cran Canaria Basketball Academy but is now coming back to Austria. Mateo started his career in Vienna before going to Germany to play for Nuenrberger Basketball Club in 2009. Mateo came back in 2010 and played for the Traiskirchen Lions as well but went abroad again. The 20 year old forward was a member of the Austria U20 national team which played at the European Championships in Bilbao last summer. In 9 appearances for the team he averaged 5.3 ppg along with 1.6 rpg.

The game without a history. Rubon led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to BGUIR-RTI's 32. They outrebounded BGUIR-RTI 46-35 including a 33-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for forward Dimitri Sivalko (199-85) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 15 rebounds. point guard Artem Malkov (185-88) accounted for 20 points for the winning side. Four Rubon players scored in double figures. point guard Anton Papruha (188-93) came up with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and swingman Genniadiy Zakhar (198-92) added 10 points and 10 rebounds respectively for BGUIR-RTI in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Top scorers:Rubon: A.Malkov 20+3reb+2ast, D.Shilovich 16+5reb, M.Dabravolski 13+4reb+1ast, D.Sivalko 12+15reb+2ast, A.Kachan 6+1reb+1ast, D.Akulich 5+3reb+9astBGUIR-RTI: E.Sugoniako 16+2reb+2ast, A.Papruha 15+5reb+5ast, G.Zakhar 10+10reb, N.Strukov 6+2reb+3ast, A.Kuzmitski 5+6reb, A.Hrumiantsau 5+3reb+1ast

The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. It was a great evening for Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds. The former international point guard Maksim Shustau (184-86) helped adding 24 points and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was the former international center Yury Mishukov (205-85) with 20 points and 6 rebounds and the former international point guard Siarhei Charykau (184-82, college: Yakima Valley CC) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. Five SBK Osipovichi players scored in double figures. Top scorers:Minsk-2006 II: M.Shustau 24+4reb+6ast, V.Ignatchik 20+6reb+2ast, R.Rutkauskas 17+15reb+2ast, Y.Kurapau 7+12reb+2ast, A.Semianiuk 5+8reb+1ast, V.Krisevich 3+1rebSBK Osipovichi: Y.Mishukov 20+6reb+2ast, K.Sitnik 14+4reb+1ast, S.Charykau 13+5reb+10ast, I.Sharipov 10+14reb, S.Vabischevich 10+2reb+6ast, A.Svirydov 6+2reb+1ast

gschID: 176208

Paliashchuk wins the Bronze abroad - by Eurobasket News

Dmitri Paliashchuk (199-F-85, agency: Interperformances) wins the Bronze in Kazakhstan. The player from Belarus top-scored in the last game for the team.Kaspiy Aktau celebrated the D1 Bronze medals. They shot down Tobol Kostanay 78:65 in the fourth game of the consolation final series to step onto the pedestal. Dmitri Paliashchuk knocked down 16 points and 14 rebounds to lead the winners. Kaspiy opened the game aggressively. They registered a 25:12 lead after ten minutes. The visitors poured in 28 points in the second term to stretch the margin at 25-point mark. Tobol adjusted their game in the third term. The home team cut the deficit to 19 points with one quarter remaining. Tobol got closer in the fourth frame but the margin proved too deep to overcome as Kaspiy rolled to the victory at the end. Andrei Malyshev and Konstantin Dvirniy added 13 points each for the winners. Anton Kotenko came up with 26 points and 10 rebounds for Tobol. Vyacheslav Bogdanov netted 10 points in the loss.

After the decline of KK Celik Zenica and KK Sloboda and the legendary KK Bosna Bosnian basketball is in a kind of agony.The domestic championship virtually reduced its talent production for the Bosnian NT to a minimum. But a couple of elite private basketball academies like KK Spars, GEN (basketball academy of Nenad Markovic, Gordan Firic and Emir Halimic) and KK Kos (Sejo Bukva) takes benefit of the corrupted giants to rally the greatest talents of BIH. Particularly KK Spars evolved in a regional powerhouse with junior NT players from BIH, Slovenia and Serbia.

In the final 3 tournament of the Bosnian U18 championship KK Spars clinched the national championship after a victory against KK Siroki.

Uniceub/BRB registered the second win in a row in the quarterfinal series versus Itabom/Bauru. Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) knocked down 24 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to pace the defending champions to a 90:78 victory. Itabom/Bauru started strong. The visitors enjoyed a 25:22 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But Uniceub/BRB gained control in the second quarter. The hosts erased the deficit and posted a 45:41 halftime lead. Uniceub/BRB unloaded 28 points in the third frame to open a 10-point lead with one quarter remaining. Uniceub/BRB limited their opponents to just 15 points in the final period to seal the victory at the end. Arthur Silva (199-F/G-82) and Lucas Tischer (208-C-83) accounted for 17 points each in the win. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) answered with 19 points, 11 boards and 4 assists for Itabom/Bauru. Jefferson Agba (209-F/C-80, college: Embry Riddle) netted 16 points and pulled down 8 rebounds in the loss.

*****************************************************

BULGARIA

Roderick Blakney selected the top Bulgarian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Bulgarians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

#1. This week's number one is an experienced former international guard Roderick Blakney (184-76, college: S.Carolina St.), who plays in Russia. He could not help Lokomotiv (9-7) in their last game. Despite Blakney's very good performance the fourth-placed Lokomotiv was edged 87-86 on the road by the leading Unics Kazan in the group B of VTB United League.
He was the top scorer with 22 points in 29 minutes on the court.
This year Blakney averages: 8.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.6apg, 2FGP: 36.2%, 3FGP: 48.2%(27-56) and FT: 76.7% in the 16 games he played so far.
He is a naturalized American.
Despite Blakney played previously for the USA national team, he played also for the Bulgarian national team in 2007.
Strangely Blakney has never played in Bulgaria.

#2. Second place goes to former international forward Ilian Evtimov (201-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.). He was the major contributor in Chalon/Saor's victory against the 12th-ranked ASVEL (12-17) 76-61 in the French ProA last Saturday.
Evtimov scored 14 points and had 3 steals.
ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (23-5) is placed second in the ProA.
It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row.
There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical.
Evtimov has relatively good stats this season: 10.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 43.9%, 3FGP: 42.8% and FT: 93.5%(29-31).
He has a dual citizenship: Bulgarian and French.
Despite Evtimov played previously for the French national team, he played also for the Bulgarian national team in 2007.

#3. The Bulgarian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Kaloyan Ivanov (205-86), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Ivanov was not able to help Meridiano Alicante (18-16) in their last game. Despite his good performance Meridiano Alicante lost 63-74 in Badalona to the lower-ranked (#11) FIATC Joventut.
Ivanov had a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 5 assists (went 5 for 5 at the free throw line) in 31 minutes.
It was Meridiano Alicante's third consecutive loss in a row.
Ivanov's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
Ivanov is ranked third on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 7.7rpg.
This year his other stats are: 12.1ppg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3FGP: 32.0% and FT: 73.3% in the 32 games.
Despite Ivanov played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Bulgarian senior national team.

#4. Point guard Kee Kee Clark (180-84, college: St.Peter's) was not able to secure a victory for Umana Venezia (17-15) in their game against Banco di Sardegna Sassari (20-12) in the Italian SerieA. Despite his very good performance in Wednesday night's game Clark was the second best scorer with 14 points. He also added 6 assists.
Clark's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important.
This season Clark has relatively solid stats: 15.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.0apg and 1.4spg.
He is a naturalized American.
Despite Clark played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.
Apparently Clark has never played in Bulgaria.

#5. International power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) couldn't help Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (12-20) in their game against Montepaschi Siena (24-8) in the Italian SerieA, despite his very good performance last Sunday.
He had a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 17 rebounds. Ivanov also added 3 assists in 33 minutes.
But Fabi Shoes Montegranaro was crushed 113-57 in Siena by the leading Montepaschi.
The Regular Season already ended.
Ivanov belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #3 with 8.2rpg.
This year he also averages: 13.1ppg, 1.3apg and 1.3spg in the 32 games.
Despite Ivanov played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

#6. Guard Earl Calloway (191-83, college: Indiana) couldn't help Cajasol (18-16) in their game against Lagun Aro GBC (19-15) in the Spanish ACB. Despite his very good performance on Thursday night Calloway was the top scorer with 14 points. He also added 5 boards, passed 5 assists and added 3 steals.
Calloway's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is extremely important.
Calloway's overall stats this season are: 7.6ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.1apg and 1.3spg.
He is a naturalized American.
Despite Calloway played previously for the USA national team, he is also a former international player as he played for the Bulgarian senior team two years ago.
Interesting that Calloway has never played in Bulgaria.

#7. Former international center Jared Homan (206-83, college: Iowa St.) led Bayern Muenchen to a victory against the closely-ranked Artland Dragons (24-10) 82-68 in the German BBL in Saturday night's game.
He recorded 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks in 33 minutes.
FC Bayern Muenchen (22-12) is placed fifth in the BBL.
It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row.
Homan is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place).
He has very reliable stats this year: 14.0ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.8apg and 1.5bpg in the 26 games.
Homan is a naturalized American.
Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Homan is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.
However he has never played in Bulgaria.

#8. Power forward Cedric Simmons (206-86, college: N.Carolina St.) contributed to an Asefa Estudiantes' victory against the league outsider Blancos de Rueda (8-26) 79-68 in the Spanish ACB last Thursday.
Simmons scored 6 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.
Asefa Estudiantes Madrid (11-23) is placed second from the bottom (#17) in the ACB.
The Regular Season already ended.
Simmons' overall stats this season are: 5.7ppg and 3.9rpg.
He is a naturalized American.
Despite Simmons played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

#9. International swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Feni Indistrija (21-5) in their game against MZT Skopje (22-4) in the FYR Macedonian Superleague, despite his good performance on Wednesday night.
He recorded 10 points in 26 minutes.
But Feni Indistrija lost 73-81 at home to the leading MZT Skopje.
They ended the series of four consecutive victories.
It's Lilov's first season with the team.
This year Lilov's overall stats are: 9.3ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.6apg in the 24 games.
Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Lilov is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

#10. Guard Aleksandar Gruev (187-83, agency: Global Sports Plaza) couldn't help Dinamo Tbilisi (10-10) in their game against Olimpi (16-4) in the Georgian Superleague.
He scored 7 points and added 7 passes.
Dinamo Tbilisi was defeated 91-86 in a derby game by the higher-ranked Olimpi (#3).
Gruev's total stats this season are: 5.7ppg and 5.3apg.
Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Gruev is also an international player who is currently on the senior Bulgarian National Team roster.

#11. International point guard Willie Deane (188-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue) is a teammate of previously mentioned Cedric Simmons. But that was another game of his team in Spanish ACB which we would like to mention.
Deane couldn't help Asefa Estudiantes in their game against UCAM Murcia.
He recorded only 4 points and had 3 steals in 12 minutes.
His team lost 80-86.
This year Deane's total stats are: 5.7ppg, 1.4rpg and 1.6apg in the 12 games.
He is a naturalized American.
Deane plays currently for the Bulgarian national team.
He used to play for PBC Lukoil Akademik Sophia in Bulgarian league.

#12. Former international swingman Simeon Naydenov (201-81, also represented by Global Sports Plaza, college: Louisville) couldn't help Stade Clermont in their game against Souffelweyersheim in the French NM1 (third division). Despite his good performance on Saturday night Naydenov recorded 10 points.
Naydenov has reliable stats this season: 14.0ppg and 2.5rpg.
Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Naydenov is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

The procedure was performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles. Mbah a Moute is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for training camp in October.

Mbah a Moute, 25, missed 19 games this season due to right knee soreness and tendonitis, including the last three of the regular season. In 43 games (22 starts) this season, the four-year NBA veteran averaged a career-high 7.7 points while shooting a career-best 51.0 percent from the field. He added 5.5 rebounds in 23.5 minutes per game.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Alfred Aboya selected the top Cameroonian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Cameroonians who are currently playing abroad.

#1. This week's number one is an international power forward Alfred Aboya (206-85, college: UCLA), who plays in the Turkish TB2L (second division). He could not help Final Genclik (24-14) in their last game. Despite Aboya's very good performance Final Genclik was badly defeated 83-66 at home by the second-ranked Optimum TED.
He was the top scorer with 22 points. Aboya also added 6 rebounds in 37 minutes on the court; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. It was Final Genclik's fourth consecutive loss in a row.
Aboya has relatively good stats this year: 14.2ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.3bpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 45.7% and FT: 71.2% in the 12 games he played so far.
He is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

#2. Second place goes to an international forward Michel Ipouck (199-86). Ipouck led Chartres to a victory against the sixth-ranked Blois (23-11) 71-66 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday.
He recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting the same number of rebounds. Ipouck also added and 4 steals.
Union Basket Chartres Metropole (15-19) is placed 14th in the NM1.
The Regular Season already ended.
It's Ipouck's first season with the team.
This year he averages: 6.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 46.6% and FT: 51.8%.
Ipouck has a dual citizenship: Cameroonian and French.
Despite he played previously for the French U20 national team, Ipouck is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

#3. The Cameroonian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Brice Vounang (202-82, college: San Diego). He was not able to help Etendard de Brest (18-16) in their game against Saint-Quentin (27-7) in the French NM1 (third division).
Vounang recorded 8 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 18 minutes.
Etendard de Brest was badly defeated 90-72 on the road by the leading Saint-Quentin.
The Regular Season already ended.
This year Vounang has relatively solid stats: 10.6ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 53.2% and FT: 66.7% in the 29 games.
Despite he played previously for the French national team, Vounang is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

#4. Forward Jacques Wampfler (194-83) managed to help SPO Rouen Basket to win against the closely-ranked Denain Voltaire (11-22) crushing them 95-75 in the French ProB (second division) in Saturday night's game.
He scored only 4 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.
SPO Rouen Basket (13-20) is placed 14th in the ProB.
It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row.
They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical.
Wampfler's overall stats this season are: 1.7ppg and 1.5rpg.
He is another player who holds two passports: Cameroonian and French.
Wampfler is also Cameroonian national team player.

#5. An experienced international shooting guard Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa (188-77) contributed to Aix-Maurienne's victory against the 12th-ranked Limoges CSP Elite (9-17) 71-65 in the French ProB (second division) last Saturday.
He scored only 2 points in 26 minutes.
Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (22-11) is placed fourth in the ProB.
It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row.
They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
Ekanga-Ehawa has reliable stats this year: 12.3ppg, 3.1rpg and 2.1apg in the 33 games.
He has both Cameroonian and French nationalities.
Ekanga-Ehawa plays currently for the Cameroonian national team.

#6. Power forward Yann Zonnet (197-89) was not able to secure a victory for Saint Vallier (15-18) in their game against SO Maritime Boulogne (18-15) in the French ProB (second division). He did not beat the league record on Saturday evening.
Zonnet scored only 3 points.
Saint Vallier was badly defeated 98-81 in Boulogne by the higher-ranked SO Maritime (#7).
His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important.
Zonnet's overall stats this season are: 2.9ppg and 3.0rpg.
He is an international player who is currently on the senior Cameroonian National Team roster.

#1. This week's number one is former international power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona), who plays in the Russian PBL. He could not help one of league's weakest teams Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) to beat Khimky (15-3).
Landry scored 9 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 21 minutes on the court.
But Triumph Lyubertsy lost 82-87 on the road to the second-ranked Khimky.
It was Triumph Lyubertsy's first loss after five consecutive victories.
It's Landry's first season with the team.
Landry belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #4 with 6.3rpg.
He also averaged so far 10.2ppg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 32.1% and FT: 72.7% in the 18 games he played so far.
Landry played for the Canadian senior national team three years ago.

#2. Second place goes to former international forward Matt Bonner (206-80, college: Florida). He managed to help San Antonio Spurs to win against the Utah Jazz (36-30) 87-81 in the NBA last Monday.
Bonner recorded 5 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.
The San Antonio Spurs have a very solid 50-16 record this season.
It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row.
Bonner has been at the team for six years.
This season he averages: 6.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 2FGP: 46.2%, 3FGP: 43.0% and FT: 75.0%.
Bonner is a naturalized American.
He played for the Canadian national team in 2009.

#3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Jevohn Shepherd (196-86, college: Michigan). Shepherd was the major contributor in Leiden's victory against the third-ranked Leeuwarden (1-3) 82-72 in the Dutch Eredivisie on Tuesday night.
He scored 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 24 minutes.
It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group A. Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (3-1) is placed first.
Shepherd's team will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And that game will be critical.
Shepherd has relatively good stats this year: 13.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 51.1%, 3FGP: 14.3% and FT: 76.3% in the 29 games.
Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Shepherd is currently a member of the Canadian senior national team.

#4. Center Joel Anthony (206-82, college: UNLV) was not able to help the Miami Heat (46-20) in their game against the New York Knicks (36-30) in the NBA.
He recorded only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.
The Miami Heat was edged 89-87 in New York by the Knicks.
Anthony plays fourth season for the team.
Anthony's overall stats this year are: 3.3ppg, 3.9rpg and 1.3bpg.
He is also Canadian national team player.

#5. Former international center Scott Morrison (212-86, college: Portland St.), who plays in the Polish PLK was not able to secure a victory for Energa Czarni (3-7) in their last game. Despite Morrison's good performance the fifth-placed Energa Czarni was edged 75-73 in Zielona Gora by the higher-ranked (#3) Zastal ZG in the Group A.
He was the second best scorer with 11 points. Morrison also added 5 rebounds and made 4 blocks in 21 minutes.
It was Energa Czarni's seventh consecutive loss in a row.
Morrison is currently fifth on the league's list of best blockers with 1.3bpg.
This year he also averages: 10.6ppg and 5.7rpg in the 38 games.
Despite Morrison played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#6. Forward Aaron Doornekamp (198-85, agency: Interperformances), who plays in the Italian SerieA couldn't help Otto Caserta (12-20) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite Doornekamp's good performance Otto Caserta was defeated 88-84 in Biella by the higher-ranked Angelico (#12).
He scored 12 points and grabbed 6 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line).
The Regular Season already ended.
Doornekamp's overall stats this season are: 7.2ppg, 4.4rpg and 1.6spg.
Despite he played previously for the Dutch national team, Doornekamp is also an international player who is currently on the senior Canadian National Team roster.

#7. International forward Levon Kendall (209-84, college: Pittsburgh) led Blusens Monbus to an overtime victory against the closely-ranked CAI Zaragoza (16-18) 89-84 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game.
He recorded 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 20 minutes.
Blusens Monbus Obradoiro CAB (13-21) is placed 13th in the ACB.
The Regular Season already ended.
This year Kendall's overall stats are: 9.3ppg and 5.9rpg in the 34 games.
Despite he played previously for the Irish national team, Kendall is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#8. Guard Carl English (192-81, college: Hawaii), who plays in the Spanish ACB couldn't help Cajasol (18-16) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his good performance Cajasol was defeated 65-61 at home by the higher-ranked Lagun Aro GBC (#5).
English was the second best scorer with 10 points.
His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
English's total stats this season are: 7.7ppg, 2.3rpg and 1.1apg.
Despite he played previously for the Irish national team, English is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#9. International guard Ali Mahmoud (185-83) contributed to a Al Riyadi's victory against the closely-ranked Anibal (18-11) 88-81 in the Lebanese Division A on Monday night.
He scored 7 points, had 4 boards, passed 3 assists and added 4 steals in 35 minutes.
It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (25-4) is placed second in the Division A.
It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row.
Mahmoud is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his eighth year in Al Riyadi's roster.
Mahmoud is ranked third on the list of the best passers in the league and also on the list of most steals (third place).
This year his total stats are: 8.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 5.7apg and 2.4spg in the 28 games.
Despite Mahmoud played previously for the Lebanese national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#10. Power forward Sean Denison (211-85, also represented by Interperformances, college: Santa Clara) couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Spartak Primorie Vladivostok (8-10) in their game against Unics Kazan (8-10) in the Russian PBL.
Denison scored 9 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.
But Spartak Primorie Vladivostok was defeated 74-60 in Kazan by the higher-ranked Unics (#6).
Denison has averaged so far 9.3ppg and 4.5rpg.
Despite he played previously for the Lebanese national team, Denison is also a former international player as five years ago he still played for the Canadian senior national team.

#11. Former international swingman Olumuyiwa Famutimi (198-84, college: Arkansas) led Optimum TED to an easy victory against the seventh-ranked Final Genclik 83-66 in the Turkish TB2L (second division) last Wednesday.
He scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in a mere 19 minutes.
This year Famutimi has relatively solid stats: 10.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.1apg and 1.2spg in the 36 games.
Despite he played previously for the Nigerian national team, Famutimi is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#12. Former international forward Jean-Richard Volcy (203-82, college: N.Michigan) couldn't help JL Bourg in their game against Olympique Antibes in the French ProB (second division). Despite his good performance on Saturday night He recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting the same number of rebounds. Volcy also added 4 assists.
Volcy has reliable stats this season: 10.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.3apg and 2.0spg.
Despite he played previously for the Nigerian national team, Volcy is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#13. Former international forward Philip Martin (202-80, college: Hawaii) couldn't help Sigma Barcellona in their game against Biancoblu BO in the Italian Lega2 (second division), despite his good performance in Saturday night's game.
He scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in a mere 17 minutes.
But his team was edged 93-90.
Martin has averaged so far 8.1ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.3spg in the 28 games.
Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Martin is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#14. Former international small forward Sefton Barrett (196-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Michigan) couldn't help Saint Vallier in their game against SO Maritime Boulogne in the French ProB (second division). Despite his very good performance last Saturday He scored 13 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.
Barrett averaged so far 11.1ppg, 3.9rpg and 1.4apg.
Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Barrett is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

#15. Former international guard Omar El Turk (188-81, college: Dawson Coll.) is a teammate of previously mentioned Ali Mahmoud. But that was another game of his team in Lebanese Division A which we would like to mention.
El Turk couldn't help Al Riyadi in their game against Anibal.
He recorded 6 points in 25 minutes.
His team lost 76-88.
El Turk has averaged so far 8.1ppg, 1.9rpg and 2.2apg in the 29 games.
Despite he played previously for the Lebanese national team, El Turk is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

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CENTRAL AFRICA

Romain Sato selected the top Central African playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Central Africans who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

#1. This week's number one is an international swingman Romain Sato (194-81, college: Xavier). He managed to help Panathinaikos Athens in a victory against the closely-ranked Kolossos (16-8) 74-66 in the Greek A1 in Monday night's game.
Sato recorded 5 points in 19 minutes on the court.
It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Panathinaikos Athens (22-2) is placed second in the A1.
It was his team's eighth consecutive victory in a row.
This year Sato averages: 6.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 2FGP: 57.1%(48-84), 3FGP: 30.5% and FT: 60.7% in the 29 games he played so far.
He is currently a member of the Central African senior national team.

#2. Second place goes to an experienced international forward Maxime Zianveni (198-79), who plays in the French ProA. Zianveni could not help Strasbourg IG (13-16) to beat Entente Orleans 45 (20-9).
He scored 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.
Strasbourg IG was badly defeated 88-71 on the road by the much higher-ranked Entente Orleans 45 (#3).
Zianveni's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical.
Zianveni's overall stats this season are: 5.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 47.5% and FT: 48.3%.
He has a dual citizenship: Central African and French.
Despite Zianveni played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Central African senior national team.

#3. The Central African player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Stephane Dondon (203-77, college: Virginia). Dondon was not able to help JA Vichy (7-26) in their game against Fos Ouest (21-12) in the French ProB (second division).
He scored 5 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 26 minutes.
JA Vichy was crushed 76-53 on the opponent's court by the much higher-ranked (#5) Fos_Ouest.
It was JA Vichy's seventh consecutive loss in a row.
Dondon's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
This year Dondon's overall stats are: 4.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 2FGP: 40.2%, 3FGP: 25.0% and FT: 69.0% in the 30 games.
He is another player who holds two passports: Central African and French.
Dondon played for the Central African national team nine years ago.

#4. Forward Martial Gotagni (190-79) contributed to a 1-point Le Puy ASMB's victory against the league outsider CFBB (2-32) 64-63 in the French NM1 (third division) in Saturday night's game.
He recorded 5 points.
ASM Basket Le Puy-en-Velay (6-28) is placed second from the bottom (#17) in the NM1.
They ended the series of three consecutive loses.
The Regular Season already ended.
It's Gotagni's first season with the team.
Gotagni has relatively good stats this year: 11.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.2apg and 1.5spg.
He is also Central African national team player.

#1. This week's number one is an international guard Marko Popovic (185-82, college: S.Idaho JC). He led Zalgiris to a victory over the closely-ranked Rudupis (16-6) 89-81 in the Lithuanian LKL in Wednesday night's game.
Popovic was MVP of the game. He scored 27 points (!!!) in 28 minutes on the court.
It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (21-1) is placed first in the LKL.
It was his team's 21st consecutive victory in a row.
It's Popovic's first season with the team.
Popovic belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #6 with 3.8apg.
He also averaged so far 9.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 2FGP: 59.2%(29-49), 3FGP: 33.3% and FT: 88.9% in the 20 games he played so far.
Popovic is currently a member of the Croatian senior national team.

#2. Second place goes to an international center Ante Tomic (217-87), who plays in the Spanish ACB. He could not help one of league's weakest teams Real Madrid (26-8) in their last game on Thursday. Despite Tomic's very good performance Real Madrid was edged 86-83 on the road by the leading Regal FC Barcelona.
He was the top scorer with 17 points. Tomic also added 9 rebounds.
His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical.
This season Tomic averages: 8.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 2FGP: 58.9%(106-180) and FT: 64.0%.
He is in the roster of the Croatian senior national team.

#3. The Croatian player who performed third best last week abroad was former U21 international center Bruno Sundov (221-80, agency: Alti Sport). Sundov was the main contributor in a Lukoil Academik's victory against the league outsider Chernomorets (3-25) crushing them 94-69 in the Bulgarian NBL on Tuesday night.
He was the best player in that game. Sundov had a double-double by scoring 23 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 3 assists in 31 minutes.
Lukoil Academik Sofia (25-3) is placed first in the NBL.
Sundov has relatively good stats this year: 12.5ppg, 5.9rpg, 2FGP: 71.1%(113-159), 3FGP: 38.9% and FT: 81.8% in the 30 games.
He played for the Croatian U21 national team twelve years ago.

#4. Center Luksa Andric (210-85, agency: Beo Basket) contributed to Galatasaray's victory against the eighth-ranked Tofas (14-16) 80-66 in the Turkish TBL in Saturday night's game.
Andric was the top player that evening. He recorded 16 points and grabbed 5 rebounds.
Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (25-5) is placed first in the TBL.
Andric's overall stats this season are: 7.7ppg and 3.8rpg.
He is also Croatian national team player.

#5. Former international guard Roko-Leni Ukic (196-84), who plays in the Turkish TBL was not able to help one of league's weakest teams one of league's weakest teams Fenerbahce Ulker (21-9) in their last game. Despite Ukic's very good performance Fenerbahce Ulker was edged in an overtime 96-94 in a derby game by the higher-ranked (#4) Besiktas.
He recorded 15 points and added 4 assists in 36 minutes.
This year Ukic has relatively solid stats: 11.6ppg, 2.8rpg and 4.1apg in the 23 games.
He used to play for the Croatian national team
two years ago.

#6. Power forward Luka Zoric (211-84) was the major contributor in a 3-point Unicaja Malaga's victory against the closely-ranked Gescrap BB (19-15) 83-80 in the Spanish ACB on Thursday night.
Zoric scored 18 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 3 assists.
Unicaja Malaga (17-17) is placed ninth in the ACB.
It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row.
The Regular Season already ended.
Zoric has reliable stats this season: 10.7ppg and 4.5rpg.
He is an international player who is currently on the senior Croatian National Team roster.

#7. Former international forward Kresimir Loncar (210-83, also represented by Alti Sport) contributed to Khimky's victory against the closely-ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) 87-82 in the Russian PBL in Saturday night's game.
Loncar scored 10 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 25 minutes.
It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Khimky Moscow Region (15-3) is placed second in the PBL.
It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row.
Loncar's stats this year are: 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg and 1.1apg in the 20 games.
He used to play for the Croatian national team
two years ago.

#8. Forward Marko Banic (205-84) faced previously mentioned Luka Zoric in the Spanish ACB last game.
Banic, who plays in the Spanish ACB was not able to secure a victory for Gescrap BB (19-15) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his good performance Gescrap BB was edged 83-80 at home by the lower-ranked Unicaja Malaga (#9).
Banic scored 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds.
His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
Banic is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his sixth year in Gescrap BB's roster.
Banic averaged so far 11.6ppg and 4.3rpg.
He used to play for the Croatian national team
back in 2010.

#9. Former U20 international center Jure Lalic (212-86) contributed to a 3-point Krka's victory against the fourth-ranked Zlatorog (5-5) 69-66 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Tuesday night.
Lalic scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 25 minutes.
Krka Novo Mesto (8-2) is placed first in Championship Group.
It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row.
This year Lalic's overall stats are: 8.3ppg and 3.8rpg in the 12 games.
He used to play for the Croatian U20 national team
six years ago.

#10. Power forward Drago Pasalic (208-84) couldn't help Helios (6-4) in their game against Union Olimpija (7-3) in the Slovenian Telemach League. Despite his very good performance in Tuesday night's game Pasalic was the second best scorer with 17 points. He also added 7 rebounds.
Pasalic averaged so far 12.5ppg and 5.5rpg.
He is a former international player as three years ago he still played for the Croatian senior national team.

#11. Former international small forward Ante Bilobrk (203-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) couldn't help Rilski Sportist in their game against Euroins Cherno More in the Bulgarian NBL, despite his very good performance last Thursday.
Bilobrk was the top scorer with 20 points in 26 minutes.
But his team lost 75-89.
This year Bilobrk's total stats are: 8.4ppg, 3.7rpg and 1.3apg in the 28 games.
He used to play for the Croatian national team
three years ago.

#12. Former international center Andrija Stipanovic (209-86) couldn't help Otto Caserta in their game against Angelico Biella in the Italian SerieA. Despite his very good performance on Wednesday night Stipanovic recorded a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 10 rebounds.
Stipanovic has averaged so far 7.7ppg, 6.3rpg and 1.2spg.
He used to play for the Croatian national team
back in 2007.

#13. Former international center Jurica Zuza (207-78, another player represented by Alti Sport) couldn't help Tofas in their game against Galatasaray in the Turkish TBL, despite his very good performance in Tuesday night's game.
Zuza was the top scorer with 19 points. He also added 5 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 24 minutes.
But his team lost 73-79.
Zuza averaged so far 12.1ppg, 4.0rpg and 1.1apg in the 31 games.
He used to play for the Croatian national team
eight years ago.

#14. Former international swingman Mario Stojic (198-80, agency: Interperformances) contributed to a Meridiano Alicante's victory against the 16th-ranked Baloncesto Fuenlabrada 66-55 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday.
Stojic recorded 11 points.
Stojic has averaged so far 4.2ppg and 2.2rpg.
Despite he played previously for the German national team, Stojic is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

#15. Former international guard Igor Milicic (194-76, another player represented by Alti Sport) couldn't help AZS Koszalin in their game against Asseco Prokom in the Polish PLK, despite his very good performance on Wednesday night.
He scored 13 points and added 5 assists in 29 minutes.
But his team lost 76-83.
Milicic is ranked sixth on the list of the best passers in the league with 5.0apg.
This year his other stats are: 10.1ppg and 2.8rpg in the 42 games.
Despite Milicic played previously for the Polish national team, he is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

#1. This week's number one is former international forward Jiri Welsch (201-80). Welsch contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-25) crushing them 81-56 in the Belgian D1 last Wednesday.
He scored 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.
Belgacom Spirou (23-8) is placed first in the D1.
It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row.
They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical.
This season Welsch averages: 8.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 45.8%, 3FGP: 28.6%.
He played for the Czech Republic senior national team two years ago.

#2. Second place goes to former international guard Tomas Satoransky (200-91), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Satoransky could not help Cajasol (18-16) to beat Unicaja Malaga (17-17).
He recorded 9 points in 25 minutes.
But Cajasol lost 66-75 on the road to the lower-ranked (#9) Unicaja Malaga.
It was Cajasol's third consecutive loss in a row.
Satoransky's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
This year Satoransky's overall stats are: 4.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.4apg, 3FGP: 27.3% and FT: 70.5% in the 34 games he played so far.
He played for the Czech Republic national team in 2010.

#3. The Czech Republic player who performed third best last week abroad was an experienced former international center Ondrej Starosta (215-79). Starosta was the major contributor in a 3-point Grupo Iruna Navarra's victory against the eighth-ranked UB La Palma (19-15) 79-76 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Sunday night's game.
He scored 15 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists.
Grupo Iruna Navarra (5-21) is placed first in the LEB Gold.
It's Starosta's first season with the team.
Starosta is currently fifth on the league's list of best rebounders.
He has very reliable stats this season: 12.6ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 56.9%(203-357) and FT: 42.0%.
Starosta played for the Czech Republic national team four years ago.

#4. Center Tomas Hampl (215-88) managed to help KK Cibona VIP Zagreb in a victory against the sixth-ranked Zadar (8-12) 88-79 in the Croatian A1 last Friday.
He scored only 4 points in 5 minutes on the court.
KK Cibona VIP Zagreb (13-0) is placed first in Championship Group.
So far his team won all thirteen games in the Second Stage.
They will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And now that game is quite important.
This year Hampl's total stats are: 1.4ppg and 2.3rpg in the seven games.
He is also Czech Republic national team player.

#5. Former international guard David Jelinek (196-90) was not able to help FIATC Joventut (16-18) in their game against Real Madrid (26-8) in the Spanish ACB.
Jelinek recorded only 4 points.
FIATC Joventut was defeated 95-82 in Madrid by the second-ranked Real.
They ended the series of three consecutive victories.
The Regular Season already ended.
Jelinek has averaged so far 7.6ppg and 1.2rpg.
He used to play for the Czech Republic national team
two years ago.

#6. Swingman Lubos Barton (202-80, college: Valparaiso) is a teammate of previously mentioned David Jelinek. But that was another game of his team in Spanish ACB which we would like to mention.
Barton contributed to a FIATC Joventut's victory against the closely-ranked Meridiano Alicante (18-16) 74-63.
He scored 6 points in 16 minutes.
FIATC Joventut Badalona (16-18) is placed 11th in the ACB.
It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row.
Barton has averaged so far 6.4ppg and 3.7rpg in the 11 games.
He is an international player who is currently on the senior Czech Republic National Team roster.

#7. International guard Jakub Kudlacek (193-90) was not able to secure a victory for Otto Caserta (12-20) in their game against Banco di Sardegna Sassari (20-12) in the Italian SerieA.
Kudlacek recorded only 4 points.
Otto Caserta was crushed 95-69 at home by the much higher-ranked Banco di Sardegna Sassari (#4).
It was Otto Caserta's third consecutive loss in a row.
The Regular Season already ended.
Kudlacek has averaged so far 5.4ppg and 1.1rpg.
He is also Czech Republic national team player.

One more player who has never been selected to any of national teams, but has Czech Republic passport:

#1.Ivo Hoger (225-C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) was the major contributor in Olimpi's victory against the closely-ranked Dinamo Tbilisi (10-10) 70-64 in a derby game in the Georgian Superleague in Thursday night's game.
He had a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 12 rebounds in 22 minutes.
Olimpi Tbilisi (16-4) is placed third in the Superleague.
It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row.
Hoger is currently sixth on the league's list of best rebounders with 8.8rpg.
He also averaged so far 12.9ppg in the 20 games he played so far.

S.F.M: Juan Pablo Duartes team named David Diaz as their head coach in San Francisco regional league.

Diaz a former Duartes player who also coaches los Indios de San Francisco in LNB league will be working with his beloved team. 'I spent 18 seasons here, as a player and I also was the team captain', 'its great to be back', said Diaz.

The league will start this sunday with the traditionals teams: Duartes, San Martin, San Vicente, Maximo Gomez and Santa Ana.

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DR CONGO

Judson Wallace selected the top Congolese playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Congolese who are currently playing abroad.

#1. This week's number one is an international power forward Judson Wallace (205-82, college: Princeton). Wallace contributed to a Regal FC Barcelona's victory against the 12th-ranked Assignia Manresa (15-19) 77-71 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday.
He recorded 6 points.
Regal FC Barcelona (29-5) is placed first in the ACB.
It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row.
They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical.
It's Wallace's first season with the team.
This year Wallace averages: 5.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 2FGP: 56.5%(26-46), 3FGP: 33.3% and FT: 66.7%.
He is a naturalized American.
Despite Wallace played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team. Strangely Wallace has never played in DR Congo.

#2. Second place goes to an international guard Yannick Bokolo (190-85). He helped Gravelines-Dunkerque win their game against the sixth-ranked Paris-Levallois (16-13) 86-75 in the French ProA on Saturday night.
Bokolo scored 7 points and added 3 assists in 15 minutes.
BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (26-3) is placed first in the ProA.
It was his team's 11th consecutive victory in a row.
They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial.
Bokolo is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Gravelines-Dunkerque's roster.
This season his overall stats are: 8.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3FGP: 25.9% and FT: 39.0% in the 27 games he played so far.
Bokolo has a dual citizenship: DR Congolese and French.
Despite he played previously for the French national team, Bokolo is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team.

#3. The DR Congolese player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland). Osby led Aix-Maurienne to a victory over the 12th-ranked Limoges CSP Elite (9-17) 71-65 in the French ProB (second division) in Saturday night's game.
He was MVP of the game. Osby recorded a double-double by scoring 17 points and getting 19 rebounds. He also added 3 assists and 2 blocks.
Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (22-11) is placed fourth in the ProB.
It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row.
They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important.
Osby is currently fourth on the list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (fourth place).
He has individually a very good season with high stats. Osby averages: 15.2ppg, 9.6rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 58.3%(200-343) and FT: 57.3%.
He is a naturalized American.
Worth to mention he played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Despite Osby played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team. Apparently Osby has never played in DR Congo.

#4. Swingman Wen Boss Mukubu (198-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: UAB), who plays in the Belgian D1 could not help VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-25) in their last game. Despite his good performance the bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster was crushed 81-56 on the road by the leading Spirou Charleroi.
Mukubu was the second best scorer with 11 points. He also added 8 rebounds in 29 minutes.
It was VOO Verviers-Pepinster's fifth consecutive loss in a row.
There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season.
Mukubu is currently fifth on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of most steals (second place).
He has very reliable stats this year: 10.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.5apg and 2.2spg in the 19 games.
Mukubu is another player who holds two passports: DR Congolese and Belgian.
Despite he played previously for the Belgian national team, Mukubu is currently in the DR Congolese national team roster.

One more player who has never been selected to any of national teams, but has DR Congolese passport:

#1.Charles Kahudi (197-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) was the major contributor in a Le Mans' victory against one of league's weakest teams Pau-Lacq-Orthez (6-23) 89-77 in the French ProA in Saturday night's game.
He scored 18 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 35 minutes.
Le Mans Sarthe Basket (18-11) is placed fourth in the ProA.
Kahudi's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical.
Kahudi has relatively good stats this year: 11.3ppg, 5.3rpg and 1.4apg in the 27 games he played so far.
He has a dual citizenship: DR Congolese and French.
Despite Kahudi's DR Congolese passport, he currently plays for the French national team and is not eligible to play for the DR Congolese team.

Naturalized Mali forward Amara Sy (202-F-81) had a great game in the last round for Orleans, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 29.The 30-year old player was the main contributor (19 points, nine rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Strasbourg (#11, 13-16) with 17-point margin 88-71. Orleans maintains the 3rd position in Mali ProA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Orleans will need more victories to improve their 20-9 record. In the team's last game Sy had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Orleans and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Amara Sy averages this season 12.7ppg and 5.9rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was young Louis Labeyrie (209-C-92) of Hyeres-Toulon. Labeyrie had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Of course he lead Hyeres-Toulon to another comfortable win 97-84 over slightly higher-ranked Le Havre (#14, 9-20) being unquestionably team leader. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Hyeres-Toulon is still at the dead bottom 16th position. 26 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Hyeres-Toulon managed to get this year. Labeyrie is a newcomer at Hyeres-Toulon and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third on the list of top players last round was Nigerian forward Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket) of Roanne (#7). Nsonwu-Amadi scored 26 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was a key player of Roanne, leading his team to a 83-76 win against slightly lower-ranked Nanterre (#9, 14-15). Roanne needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 16 victories and 13 lost games. Nsonwu-Amadi has a great season in France. After 29 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 7.0rpg (5th best).

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Nancy eye Jimmy Baxter - by Eurobasket News

Nancy is still looking for a guard to strengthen the roster. After failing to land Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) Nancy have taken a closer look at Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Florida). The guard is finishing his short-term deal with Bourg this week. Jimmy Baxter tallied 18.5 points, 4.5 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game in ProB. The guard started the season in Slovenia. He played for Krka Novo Mesto. Jimmy Baxter averaged 9.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in EuroCup. In Adriatic League the guard notched 10.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.3 steals. The guard moved to Ikaros in January. There his stats read 12.9 points, 3.5 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals in A1 League. Previously Jimmy Baxter had stints in Iran, Greece, Israel, Turkey, Belgium, WBA, Latvia, Italy, France and Portugal before.

Schwaben teams stick together and if the Walter Tigers Tuebingen can resign players during the season for next season, so can ratiopharm Ulm. ratiopharm Ulm demonstrated that they are also looking ahead to the future and want to hold a good core of the team and announced today that Tommy Mason-Griffin (180-PG-90, college: Oklahoma) will be returning next season. Mason-Griffin is a 21 year old 180cm point guard from Houston, Texas. This season, he has played 29 games averaging 7,5pg, 2,1rpg and 3,0apg. He recently was injured in April, but has returned back to the Ulm rotation and been able to play in the Braunschweig series. Mason-Griffin played a season at Oklahoma (NCAA, starting five): 31 games: 14.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 5apg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 81.3%. He turned pro in 2010-2011 starting with Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League): 5 games: 2.6ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.8apg, and then moved in March'11 moved to Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 10 games: 5.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 87.5%.

Quantez Robertson (Fraport Skyliners) Catching A Ball At The Rim And Dunking Over Some Players Is Missing In The Tez Highlight Video - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Quantez Robertson (189-G-84, college: Auburn) is a 26 year old 190 cm guard from Cincinnati Ohio. He is playing his third season in Germany in the BEKO BBL for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. He played at Auburn from 2005-2009. In his senior year he played 36 games averaging 6.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 3.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 39.4%, 3Pts: 23.6%, FT: 62.3%. He reached the NIT elite 8 with Aubrun in 2009.He is seen as an athletic freak with amazing lateral quickness and long arms and is good enough to play in the NBA based off of his defensive skills alone. In his rookie season, he played 48 games: 6.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 60.0%. Last season, he played EuroChallenge: 6 games: 6.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 83.3%; German League: 38 games: 7.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 68.9% He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball recently

Four months ago, the Fraport Skyliners were in 17th place and then so close to the Beko BBL playoffs. If someone had told you then that the Fraport Skyliners would be so close to the Beko BBL playoffs what would you have thought?

I would have thought that they were lying. We didnt play well together on offense or defense at the start of the season. We also had injuries, but we were able to put it together and we trusted each other and got more involved on the court.

You had Murat Didin and Gordon Herbert as coach. Why did it take so long to find the team rhythm under Muli Katzurin?

We just needed to learn the system better under Katzurin. Once we learned the concept, then we started to play well.

The Fraport Skyliners started their upswing in December 2011 with the win against Phoenix Hagen. It was also the last game of Jon Leuer before he left for the NBA. Do you think if Leuer would of stayed that he would have been a foreign body in a growing defense?

Yes I think that he would have been. He is a very good offensive player that helped us a lot. He also helped us on defense. He has a big body and was able to guard several positions.

What was the secret to the success of the Skyliner defense?

We rely on each other and help each other out on the court. We also push each other in practice. Our offense makes our defense better. We all know what we have to do and just play team defense.

Jimmy Mckinney said after the big win in Trier that teams are afraid of your defense. How important was having teams share that feeling?

That is very important. It will be important to keep those high scoring teams below their scoring average which will give us a better chance of winning since we dont score as much as other teams. We have to play good team defense, rebound well and limit their possessions.

How would you rate your own defensive play this season?

My performance this season at times has not been at the level that I want it at. I think that I have stepped up my game from the start of the season. I just try to get extra possessions with steals and doing the dirty work and getting extra rebounds.

Anton Gavel won best defensive player of the year. Are you a little disappointed that you didnt win?

I think that losing so much at the start and having a bad record might have played a role. I think that I had a chance to get it, but he is a good player and he deserved it more than other good defensive players.

You are the energy and Devin Gibson is Mr cool. What do you like most about his defense?

He is always pressuring the ball and doesnt get beat. He is very good on ball defense and gets steals. He is always so composed no matter what is happening.

Is there a better one two defense combo of Devin Gibson and Qantez Robertson?

I dont know, but I guess we are the best.

Who has been your toughest opponent this season?

There have been a few. Casey Jacobsen is that is a good offensive scorer and is good off the screen. He can also get to the rim well. Dashaun Wood is also tough, because he is quick on the pick and roll and has quick moves. Rickey Paulding can shoot and posts up well.

What is the most important thing that you have learned from coach Muli Katzurin?

I have learned from to always keep playing no matter what is happening. He also tells us to always attack the rim and shoot when we can and not to think about it, but just shoot.

Jacob Burtschi does it all on the court. What is something that you are still waiting for him to do on the court?

I havent seen him dunk or get a block yet. He does all the important little things and creates mismatches.

You play 40 minutes sometimes. Do you do extra fitness to be able to play so long?

Sometimes in practice, I dont get a break so I am used to it. When I am on the floor in games, I just dont pay attention to it, but just want to win.

A flaw in your game is your three point shooting. Do you think that you can still improve this?

This hasnt been a good shooting year for me. I need to keep working on my shooting and form.

How important has Jimmy Mckinney been this season?

He has been great. He and Jermareo Davidson have done a lot on offense and if we didnt have them wouldnt have been in the position to win some games. When they get going, they get the whole team going and just make everyone else better. They are a big factor why we win games.

Jimmy Mckinney is playing his sixth season in Frankfurt. Could you imagine staying in Frankfurt that long?

I think I could. I like the organization and am close to the players including the Germans. If the team would like to keep me, then I would stay as long as they want me.

How does Jermareo Davidson make you laugh?

It isnt that hard for him to do that. He is goofy on and off the court. He is very good at quoting well known movies and making it funny.

You have done many amazing plays, but what play is still missing form the Tez highlight reel?

Catching a ball at the rim and dunking over a few players.

What amazed you the most at the 2011 Beko BBL allstar slam dunk contest from winner Salu Benjamin Tadi?

It was amazing how he jumped over the mascots. I congratulate him on winning. He did some dunks that really blew the crowd and me away.

Salu Benjamin Tadi wanted to know how you are able to make jumping look so easy?

I started doing squats in college as well as lunges which I have continued to do now to help keep my athletic ability.

Soulis Markopoulos will not anymore be the head coach of PAOK Thessaloniki. So the experienced coach after three seasons in a row with the team of Thessaloniki will have to look for a new job. Soulis Markopoulos as one of the best Greek coaches ever by sure he will have a lot of proposals, a big issue is if he will decide to continue or retire from basketball.

PAOK Thessaloniki at the same time will more probably look for a Greek coach or a foreign who has passed in the past from the Greek league. The new coach will have a low budget to build a new team because the target of the board is to pay the money owed from previous seasons to everyone (players, coaches, et.c).

The president of PAOK ThessalonikiBane Prelevic said: ''Unfortunately the team cannot meet the demands of the coach . The difference was purely economic. Should PAK operate in such a way that it agrees to adhere to. Everyone wanted the coach to stay , we understand that he is professional, but any excess is dangerous for the future of the group. We must continue our efforts to cope with even 2-3 years in this harsh but realistic philosophy to get where you want. We know that the truth is cruel, not like anyone, but this must be done for the sake of PAOK Thessaloniki, to adhere to what we should '.

Second games of the Playoff Semifinals in Hungary were played last night. Szolnok smashed Albacomp 100-74 for 2-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-five, so Szolnok is just one win away from the Finals. Also last night, Kormend was better than Falco-Szova. It was a 67-57 victory for the home squad and score is tied at 1-1 now. Third games are scheduled for Thursday. Albacomp and Falco will be the hosts. Falco was the regular season champion, while Szolnok is the defending champ from the last season.

Kormend - Falco-Szova 67-57 (1-1)The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 67-57. Kormend dominated on the defensive end, holding Falco-Szova to just 7 points in second quarter. 24 personal fouls committed by Falco-Szova helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward Rashad Bell (201-82, college: Boston U.) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. The former international guard Csaba Ferencz (194-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. International forward Zsolt Szabo (202-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) produced 14 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) added 14 points respectively for the guests. Top scorers:Kormend: R.Bell 20+10reb+1ast, C.Ferencz 15+6reb, J.Eilingsfeld 11+6reb, A.Rujak 9+2reb+2ast, G.Fodor 5+3reb+1ast, I.Nemeth 5+5reb+3astFalco-Szova: Z.Szabo 14+7reb, C.Timberlake 14+4reb+3ast, M.Szanati 8+1reb, D.Pantelic 6+9reb+2ast, L.Kalman 5+2reb, T.Harazin 4+6reb+1ast

gschID: 176159

Szolnok - Albacomp 100-74 (2-0)The game was mostly controlled by Szolnok. Albacomp was better in second period 25-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 17-of-19 charity shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Szolnok outrebounded Albacomp 35-24 including a 28-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 17 long-distance shots on high 56.7 percentage. Szolnok players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists. International point guard Obie Trotter (186-84, college: Alabama A&M, agency: Court Side) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 8 assists (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!). American forward Brandon Gay (203-82, college: San Diego, agency: Edge Sports) contributed with 13 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Five Szolnok players scored in double figures. American forward Damian Hollis (203-88, college: G.Washington, agency: Two Points) replied with 21 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook, agency: Two Points) added 26 points in the effort for Albacomp. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Top scorers:Szolnok: O.Trotter 23+1reb+8ast, A.Horvath 18+4ast, B.Gay 13+8reb+4ast, M.Fodor 11+3reb+4ast, J.Mills 10+9reb+4ast, H.Nikolov 10+4reb+1astAlbacomp: M.El Amin 26+4reb, D.Hollis 21+6reb+3ast, B.Simon 7+2reb+8ast, A.Keller 6+4reb, A.Madar 4+2reb, R.Hendlein 3+2reb

courtesy oursportscentral.com The Bellingham Slam received another strong performance from center Blake Poole as they easily dispatched the Orlando Venom 123-100 in IBL action at Winter Park Community CENTER in Orlando. Forward Michael Duty continued his strong play from the previous night with eight points in the quarter. Bellingham led 56-36 at the half. The Slam streched the margin to 97-64 in the third. The lead fell to 103-84 with 7:16 left but the Slam steadied the ship and cruised the rest of the way.

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ICELAND

Vilhjalmsson Hoerdur wins the title with Mitteldeutscher BC - by Eurobasket News

Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson (188-G-88) wins the title with Mitteldeutscher BC in Germany. The Icelandic player averaged 9.6 points per game this season with the German team. Mitteldeutscher BC won ProA Finals.They lost the opener to Kirchheim 82:88 but won the second game 81:73. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Kirchheim Knights won third quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Mitteldeutscher BC made 26-of-27 free shots (96.3 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was center Phillipp Heyden who scored 16 points and 7 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). American forward Arizona Reid chipped in 12 points and 6 rebounds. American forward Devin Uskoski produced 14 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Brandon Griffin added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Five Mitteldeutscher BC and four Kirchheim Knights players scored in double figures.

Hapoel Tel-Aviv pulled ahead in the title series. Beer Yaakov was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 5-point lead after three quarters before a 28-17 charge of Hapoel Tel-Aviv, which allowed them to win the game. They made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Hapoel Tel-Aviv forced 19 Beer Yaakov turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Demontez Stitt (186-89, college: Clemson) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 8 rebounds. point guard Gal Eytan (183-87, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) contributed with 22 points for the winners. Four Hapoel Tel-Aviv players scored in double figures. American guard Nate Miller (193-87, college: Bowling Green) answered with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import forward Jermaine Hall (196-80, college: Wagner) added 24 points in the effort for Beer Yaakov. Top scorers:Hapoel T-A: G.Eytan 22+3reb+3ast, D.Stitt 20+8reb+3ast, C.Carr 16+2reb+5ast, C.Kelly 15+1reb, M.Naor 9+8reb+3ast, A.Zelkovits 2Macc.B.Yaakov: J.Hall 24+4reb+1ast, N.Miller 24+10reb+1ast, I.Simin 12+8reb+2ast, Y.Bet-Yosef 9+3reb+6ast, D.Housman 5+3reb+3ast, I.Buchman 2+1reb+1ast

gschID: 176365

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ITALY

News from Angelico Biella - by Eurobasket News

2011/12 season is over for Angelico Biella. The team ended as No.12 in SerieA with 13-19 record. General Manager Marco Atripaldi already started to talk about the next season. He said that the club has 8 players under the contracts for 2012/13 (Soragna, Chrysikopoulos, Lagana, Lombardi, De Vico, Tavernari, Raspino and Magarity). However, Atripaldi added he is not sure will the club keep all of them. Tadija Dragicevic (206-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Albert Miralles (208-C-82, agency: Interperformances) are also under the contracts, but they have the out clause to leave and it will be very hard for the club to keep them. About Dragicevic, Atripaldi said that he is a high level player who wants to play in the European Cups. Americans Aubrey Coleman (193-G-87, agency: Two Points, college: Houston) and Jacob Pullen (182-PG-89, college: Kansas St.) are already free agents. The situation with Goran Jurak (203-F/C-77) is under the question mark. The player wants to stay and two sides are already in talks, but everything depends on the budget of Angelico Biella for the next season. Marco Atripaldi also said that Head Coach Massimo Cancellieri might stay with the team.

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LUXEMBOURG

William Arre will join Etzella - by Eurobasket News

William Arre (199-F-86, college: Lock Haven) will change the team. The forward will move to Etzella next season. Last two seasons William Arre spent in BBC Nitia. Last season the forward averaged 25.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.2 steals per game in Diekirch League. He also participated at Luxembourg League All-Star Game. Previously William Arre played for Black Star.

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MONTENEGRO

MNE Play-Off Final game No 1 : Buducnost easy win against Sutjeska - by Dragan Scepanovic

Basketball team Buducnost from Podgorica achieved a victory in the first leg play-off finals Erste Super League - the current champion is defeated in his court Basketball Club Sutjeska 101:59 (27:10, 31:11, 19:23, 24:15). '' Blue'' was dominated throughout the match and easily reach the first of three needed victory on the road to six titles. Second match of the final series of the game on Thursday in Niksic, starting in 19 hours.

Swept out of the first round of the NBA playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder, the defending champion Dallas Mavericks appeared to take out some pent-up frustration on former teammate Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island).

The team voted on Sunday not to include Odom in their share of playoff money, a team source confirmed to ESPNDallas.com. That means Odom, who was dismissed from the team at halftime of the Mavericks' game against the Grizzlies on April 7, will be out of a $14,000 playoff share.

'If the Lamar thing would have worked out and if he would have played like the year before when he was the best sixth man, I think we would have had a shot,' Dirk Nowitzki told ESPNDallas.com 'It would have given us another playmaker, another guy that's long, that can defend and rebound.

'But for whatever reason the stuff he was going through off the court was just too much. He couldn't help us the way he wanted, the way we wanted, and we had to move on without him.'

Stan Van Gundy knows that speculation is rampant that this playoff series against the Indiana Pacers will mark the end of his tenure as the Orlando Magic's coach.

But Van Gundy maintains the rumors don't bother him.

'I've been around coaching my entire life - literally, my entire life,' Van Gundy said after the Magic finished practice Monday at Amway Center. 'I really think, for all coaches, I don't think that's disconcerting at all. You sort of know when you go into it - and, for me, I knew long before I went into it because I'd been around it - that's all part of it. You don't worry about that.'

'I think the only thing you worry about is winning games, and you're not happy being down 3-1. I'm upset about losing Game 4 and the whole thing. But the rest of it, I don't have any control over that. I do have some control over getting our team ready to play.'

The Magic will face the Pacers in Game 5 at 7 tonight at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Van Gundy owns a 259-135 regular-season record and a 31-27 postseason record as the Magic's coach.

He has said he wants to return as the Magic's coach for the 2011-12 season, and Magic CEO Alex Martins has said all employees will be evaluated after the postseason ends.

The top-seeded Bulls finally won without point guard Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis), building a nine-point halftime lead and staying in control down the stretch to pull within 3-2. Game 6 is Thursday in Philadelphia.

It's been a brutal series for the Bulls, with Rose tearing the ACL in his left knee late in the opener and center Joakim Noah spraining his left ankle in Game 3. He sat out his second straight game, but Chicago refused to bow out quietly.

Instead, the Bulls locked down the Sixers, holding them to a season-low 32.1 percent shooting. And with Boozer and Deng coming up big, Chicago kept its season going.

Deng played more like an All-Star after averaging just eight points in the previous three games, hitting 4 of 5 3-point attempts - three in the fourth quarter. He also grabbed eight rebounds. Boozer tied a career-playoff high with six assists, and the Bulls came out on top just when their season appeared to be unraveling.

They still have no room for error.

A loss Thursday would make them the fifth No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 8 seed in the first round and the second in as many years, after San Antonio fell to Memphis last season. But if they continue to play like this, the Bulls just might have a shot.

Jrue Holiday (6'3''-PG-90, college: UCLA) scored 16 points for Philadelphia but hit just 5 of 17 shots. Lou Williams scored 13 points and Andre Iguodala and Spencer Hawes both finished with 11. Hawes scored 21 and 22 the previous two games, although he did grab 14 rebounds, and the Sixers remained one win from their first series victory since 2003.

The Bulls took a 57-48 lead into the fourth quarter after another injury scare late in the third.

This time, Taj Gibson (6'9''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: USC) came up clutching his right ankle and hit the court after fouling Lavoy Allen underneath with just over 2 minutes left in the quarter. He came back early in the fourth to loud cheers, and the crowd was really roaring when Deng nailed a 3 to make it 67-52, giving the Bulls their biggest lead.

They had more to cheer when Gibson hit a jumper, pumping his fist, and two free throws to get the lead 71-58. And they were really screaming moments later when guard Ronnie Brewer blocked Elton Brand on a putback.

Deng had it going early on, scoring 11 points in the first half. And the Bulls led 35-26 after closing it out on a 10-2 run in which things got heated.

Boozer missed a jumper. Gibson and Brand wound up on the court near the Bulls bench in a scramble for the loose ball, and they kept going at it as players from both sides joined the scrum.

Brewer and Evan Turner (6'7''-G/F-88, college: Ohio St.) appeared to exchange some heated words, but Gibson and Brand wound up getting technical fouls with 2:25 left.

Boozer scored on a reverse layup and Brewer hit a runner to make it a nine-point game with a minute left, while the Sixers simply couldn't convert. They missed their final four shots of the half, including a tip and layup by Hawes, and were just 4 of 23 in the second quarter.

In his first start since January, Horford scored 19 points, hit Atlanta's final two baskets and came up with a huge defensive play to make sure the Hawks kept their season going with a frenetic 87-86 victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference playoffs Tuesday night.

'I wanted to bring that energy to the team,' Horford said.

That he did, dribbling out at the head of fast breaks and diving fearlessly on the court for loose balls, not the least bit worried about reinjuring the pectoral muscle that kept him out most of the season. In addition to leading the Hawks in scoring, he grabbed 11 rebounds, dished out three assists, came up with three steals and blocked three shots - all while playing more than 31 minutes, far more than the Hawks intended.

'I didn't expect to play that many at all,' Horford said. 'We had an arrangement. It was going to be between 15 and 25.'

With the season on the line, the Hawks couldn't worry about pre-game arrangements. The Celtics lead the series 3-2 heading back to Boston for Game 6 on Thursday. If the Hawks can steal one on the road, the deciding game would be Saturday in Atlanta.

'We can be nothing but confident,' Horford said. 'We know it's going to be a big challenge up there. '

Boston had a chance to clinch the series when Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) stole Josh Smith's inbounds pass with 10 seconds remaining and raced down the court, looking for the winner. But the point guard got hemmed in along the sideline when Horford jumped out to defend him, which caused Rondo to lose control and fling a desperation pass. Smith knocked it away, the ball rolling harmlessly out of bounds as the horn sounded.

'I cornered myself,' Rondo said. 'Give Al credit.'

A relieved Smith collapsed on the scorer's table as glittery streamers fell from the rafters.

'I feel awful the game ended the way it ended, because I thought Rondo willed us back into the game,' Celtics coach Doc Rivers said.

Paul Pierce (6'7''-F/G-77, college: Kansas) and Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) led the Celtics with 16 points apiece. Rondo had 13 points and 12 assists, and the last of his five steals gave Boston a chance to end the series early and get some much-needed rest.

But there's still work to do, and now the Celtics have to cope with an Atlanta player who spent most of the season rehabbing. Horford tore his left pectoral muscle in January, missing the rest of the regular season and the first three games of the playoffs. But he made a surprise return in Game 4, one of the few bright spots in an embarrassing 101-79 loss that gave the Celtics command of the series.

'We got everybody back at the right time,' Atlanta star Joe Johnson said. 'We have a chance to do something special.'

Smith clearly looked hobbled by a sore knee that kept him out of Game 3, but still managed 13 points and 16 rebounds. Jeff Teague had 16 points, while Johnson and Marvin Williams had 15 apiece, giving Atlanta double-figure scoring from all five starters in a revamped lineup.

'This is the team they thought they were going to start the season with,' Rivers said. 'They now have it, and we have to deal with it.'

In a back-and-forth game, the Celtics tied it at 83 on Ray Allen's 3-pointer from the corner, capping a quick 7-0 run.

The Hawks called time out and set up a play that reclaimed the lead for good. Teague drove into the lane and dumped it off to Horford for an uncontested dunk.

After Garnett missed a jumper in the lane, Johnson ran down the shot clock looking as though he had every intention of shooting. But, at the last possible second, he rifled a pass to Horford coming off the wing. The big center threw up a sort of pseudo-hook with Garnett and Brandon Bass all over him. The ball bounced around the rim before falling through with 1:34 left, giving the Hawks an 87-83 lead.

With less than a minute to go, after misses by Pierce and Horford canceled each other out, Pierce was inexplicably left open for a 3-pointer. He swished it, pulling the Celtics within a point. They wouldn't get another, even with a couple of chances.

Teague missed an open 3 for the Hawks, giving Pierce a look at the go-ahead shot. But his 18-foot jumper with Johnson in his face barely touched the bottom of the net, falling harmlessly out of bounds while Pierce looked around in disbelief, believing he must have been fouled.

Rondo's steal gave the Celtics one more chance, but they never got a shot off.

Boston appeared to have the momentum when it closed the third quarter on a Rondo-led 10-0 spurt that cut Atlanta's 12-point lead down to a mere basket. First, he flipped a brilliant lob pass to Ryan Hollins for a dunk. Then, Rondo soared through the lane for a putback after Allen missed a 3-pointer. When Smith followed with a lazy inbounds pass, Rondo stole it away and hit a jumper. The Hawks turned it over again when Horford doled out an illegal pick, and Rondo went right back to work. Even after missing a 3-pointer, he darted into the lane when Hollins snatched the offensive rebound, took a pass and laid it in.

Finally, with the Hawks in total panic mode, Johnson dribbled too close to the sideline, got pinned and turned it over. The Celtics took off the other way, with Allen delivering a pass to Mickael Pietrus for a reverse layup with three-tenths of a second remaining. Just like that, Boston had sliced it to 66-64 heading to the fourth. The road team, cheered on by thousands of green-clad fans sprinkled around Philips Arena, kept it going early in the fourth, pushing out to a 73-69 lead on Allen's 3-pointer with 8 1-2 minutes remaining.

But no lead was safe in this topsy-turvy game. The Hawks ripped off a 14-3 run. The Celtics called time out and scored seven straight of their own, capped by another 3 by Allen.

Looking to spark his team and generate more offense, Atlanta coach Larry Drew juggled his lineup for Game 5. Horford's first start since his injury wasn't totally surprising, given the center had 12 points and five rebounds off the bench in Sunday's 22-point loss.

Perhaps more significantly, the Hawks started Williams at small forward and shifted Johnson to shooting guard, hoping that would create mismatches and give Atlanta's top scorer more offensive chances. He took only eight shots in Game 4, a totally unacceptable number that left Johnson grumbling that Horford's return seemed to disrupt the offense more than it helped.

No complaints now.

'To have a full deck, with everybody back,' Johnson said, 'it's a blessing.'

Andre Miller (6'2''-PG-76, college: Utah) scored 24 points, including two free throws with 12.8 seconds left, and the Denver Nuggets survived Kobe Bryant's (6'6''-G-78) late scoring barrage in a 43-point performance, avoiding playoff elimination with a 102-99 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 5 on Tuesday night.

Javale McGee (7'0''-C-88, college: Nevada) had 21 points and 14 rebounds for the sixth-seeded Nuggets, who trimmed the Lakers' series lead to 3-2, but only after a hair-raising finish.

Denver had a 15-point lead midway through the fourth quarter against the lifeless Lakers, but Bryant engineered a stunning comeback before his final three shots missed. Bryant scored 12 points in the final 4:47, hitting four 3-pointers that trimmed the Nuggets' lead to 98-96 with 59 seconds left.

'Kobe was incredible,' Denver coach George Karl said. 'He scares the hell out of me every time we go up against him.'

Bryant then missed a potential tying 5-footer and a 3-pointer, but Denver missed two free throws before Ramon Sessions (6'3''-PG-86, college: Nevada) hit a 3-pointer with 12.8 seconds left, trimming the Nuggets' lead to one point.

Los Angeles had two more chances to tie after the veteran Miller's free throws, but Bryant and Sessions missed 3-pointers near the buzzer.

Game 6 is Thursday night in Denver.

Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) scored a career playoff-high 19 points and Danilo Gallinari added 14 for the Nuggets, while rookie Kenneth Faried had 10 points and nine rebounds. Miller scored 10 points in the fourth quarter and 17 in the second half, calmly leading his young teammates to the win.

Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87) had 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Lakers, who lost a closeout playoff game at home for the first time since May 4, 2006, against Phoenix. Until Bryant's big finish, Los Angeles mustered little passion for the occasion, playing the second half under steady boos from their fans.

Bynum indirectly tweaked the Nuggets on Monday when he proclaimed elimination games are 'actually kind of easy' because an opponent will sometimes give up quickly when facing adversity. Karl mentioned the quote to his Nuggets, and they played like a team that isn't going anywhere.

'I've been blessed to win a few series, and the hardest thing to win is that fourth game,' Karl said. 'His feeling on closeouts is a little different than mine.'

The Nuggets still must win two games to advance to the second round for just the second time in nine years, but they have already accomplished something rare by winning Game 5. Los Angeles had closed out a playoff series on the first try in 11 of its previous 12 opportunities, and the Lakers won 12 of their last 13 closeout games under departed coach Phil Jackson.

The Lakers never trailed in the first two games of the series, but they never led in Game 5 after their very first basket made it 2-0.

'They were daring us to take outside shots,' Brown said. 'We were getting shots we couldn't make. But to me, that's not the difference in the game. There were so many things we could have done to win this ballgame. ... I'm more disappointed in our defense and our lack of protecting the paint.'

The Lakers thought they had taken control of the series with a final-minute rally to win a tight Game 4, but the Nuggets have outplayed the third-seeded Lakers for long stretches of the series. Denver was sharper and more determined from the opening tip in Game 5, while the Lakers played a disorganized, disinterested 3 quarters until the late rally.

In the best game of his first career playoff series, McGee threw down a mind-boggling array of dunks and converted alley-oop passes while dominating the Lakers' superstar duo of 7-footers. McGee dunked on a 60-foot alley-oop pass from Miller early in the fourth quarter, and he stared down the Lakers' fans after dunking while getting fouled with 6:35 to play, putting the Nuggets ahead by 15.

Pau Gasol had just nine points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers, while Matt Barnes scored 11 points.

The Lakers failed to complete their first playoff series victory under coach Mike Brown exactly one year after Dallas swept the Lakers in the second round of last year's postseason, ending 11-time NBA champion coach Jackson's career for now, anyway.

Los Angeles' loss means starting forward Metta World Peace will finish his seven-game suspension during the first round. World Peace was banned for viciously elbowing Oklahoma City's James Harden in the Lakers' penultimate regular-season game.

The Lakers got off to a 3-for-12 start and fell behind after leading the first two home games of the series from start to finish. Neither team was particularly sharp in the first half, with the Lakers trailing 49-43 at the break after making just 15 of 45 shots despite 18 points from Bryant.

Denver enforced its preferred speedy tempo on the walk-it-up Lakers for long stretches, repeatedly beating the Lakers back with fast breaks and sharp passes. Each time the Lakers managed to get close, the Nuggets responded with a rally, including a 10-2 surge to close the third quarter.

It was Indiana's first series win since 2005 and its first clincher on its home court since the first round of the 2000 playoffs. The Pacers will play Miami or New York in the second round.

Darren Collison (6'0''-PG-87, college: UCLA) scored 15 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter and George Hill added 15 points for the Pacers, who trailed by two at the end of the third quarter but outscored the Magic 36-16 in the final 12 minutes.

Jameer Nelson (6'0''-PG-82, college: St.Joseph's) led Orlando with 27 points and made 5 of 8 3-pointers. Glen Davis (6'9''-F-86, college: LSU), a thorn in Indiana's side throughout the series, scored 15 but made just 6 of 17 shots. The Magic made just 5 of 16 shots in the fourth quarter.

Collison made a layup and hit a 3-pointer to give the Pacers a 78-73 lead with 9:33 to play. After Nelson drained another 3, Collison came back with a layup, then Leandro Barbosa's steal and layup pushed Indiana's lead to 87-80 with 6:49 to play and forced an Orlando timeout. A few minutes later, Indiana's Paul George stole an inbounds pass and found Granger under the hoop for a layup and a 91-80 lead. The Pacers dominated from there.

Indiana led by as many as 15 points in the first half, but as was the case throughout the series, it didn't last. Orlando got hot late in the half, and a 3-pointer by Jason Richardson and a bucket by Davis cut Indiana's lead to 48-47. Indiana's Roy Hibbert made a hook shot to push the lead back to three at the break.

A putback by Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) gave Orlando a 51-50 lead early in the third quarter.

A bucket by David West and a jumper and a 3-pointer by Hill pushed Indiana's lead to 57-51. Orlando rallied again and tied the game at 61 on a fadeaway by Davis before a three by Nelson gave Orlando a 66-64 lead. He hit another three in the closing seconds - he had 15 in the quarter - to give Orlando a 71-69 lead.

Hill added nine points in the period to keep the Pacers in the game before Collison and Granger put it away.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

Mavs would 'love' to see Terry return, but 'at what cost?' - by Eurobasket News

Jason Terry (6'2''-PG-77, college: Arizona) has been a permanent fixture with the Dallas Mavericks for the past eight seasons.

Whether he makes it to a ninth season is anybody's guess.

'I think you need to ask him that,' general manager Donnie Nelson said Sunday. 'You talk about a guy that's given his heart and soul to this franchise, and made big plays and big shots.

'We'd love to have Jet back. It's just at what cost?'

Terry, who made $11.4 million this past season, was the starting point guard when the Mavs made their first appearance in the NBA Finals in 2006. And he was a key player off the bench and the team's second-leading scorer behind Dirk Nowitzki when the Mavs captured last year's NBA title.

'We all know what he means on the court -- one of the best clutch shooters I think this league has ever seen,' Nowitzki said. 'But also off the court [he's] always joking, great for the chemistry, great in the community, so he's my man.

'Hopefully it's going to work out, it's going to work out for him the way he wants it to. I think it's definitely going to be weird seeing him in a different jersey, so hopefully we figure it out and he'll be here.'

Asked if he'll be back with the Mavs next season, an emotional Terry said: 'I really can't say at this time. I don't know. I've got a lot of things on the agenda.'

Courtesy of www.star-telegram.com

Lakers likely to re-sign Jordan Hill; Ramon Sessions a different story - by Eurobasket News

The contracts of two players acquired by the Lakers at the trade deadline - point guard Ramon Sessions (6'3''-PG-86, college: Nevada) and power forward Jordan Hill (6'10''-F/C-87, college: Arizona) - are up at seasons end, and one is more likely than the other to be back in L.A. next season.

It seems increasingly probable that the Lakers will try to re-sign Hill, the L.A. Times reports, despite him being charged with a third-degree felony for an alleged assault that occurred before the trade from Houston. Sessions, however, will probably to test the free agent market, the L.A. Daily News notes.

Hill - who is accused of choking a former girlfriend in February, when he was still with the Rockets - has seen an increasing on-court role for the Lakers. He had 12 points and 11 rebounds in 23 minutes in the Lakers' 92-88 Game 4 victory over the Denver Nuggets Sunday - his third double-double in six games since becoming a regular member of the rotation, The Times points out.

'He's been a huge contributor for us ever since we inserted him in the lineup, Kobe Bryant said. 'He's been extremely consistent. He's given us a huge, huge boost.'

'Being a free agent, anything can happen,' Hill said. 'I'm just trying not to focus on that right now. I'm just trying to focus on this ring. It will definitely feel great to have a ring on my finger and after the season, we'll go from there.'

Sessions, meanwhile, is now the Lakers' starting point guard and averaged 12.7 points and 6.2 assists in 23 regular-season games in L.A. Hes averaged 13.8 points and 4.3 assists in the four playoff games against the Nuggets.

He has the option of terminating his contract July 1 and hit free agency, where hell likely be able to land a more lucrative deal elsewhere, according to the Daily News.

'It's something I'll deal with,' Sessions said

'... It's definitely something that's not in the back of my mind right now because I'm trying to focus on the playoffs. It's not even a concern. I don't know what's going to happen. I know it's coming.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com

Jerry Sloan could be the coach to help Michael Jordan rebuild the reeling Charlotte Bobcats - by Eurobasket News

Michael Jordan's Bobcats can start to upgrade their status, from laughingstock franchise to serious rebuilding team, if they win the draft lottery and get to select Kentucky star Anthony Davis with the No. 1 pick next month.

But who would get to coach a player who is already being projected as a future franchise-changer?

Were hearing that the Bobcats may take a look at Jerry Sloan to replace Paul Silas.

The former Utah Jazz coach would be a tremendous, out-of-the-box choice and the first indication that Jordan is committed to turning his seven-win team around.

The obvious connection between Jordan and Sloan is that they both have their numbers hanging from the rafters in Chicagos United Center. Beyond that, Jordan has great admiration for the coach he twice defeated in the Finals, at the end of his second three-peat.

Sloan might be tempted to return to the sidelines, if the situation and money are right. But what about taking over a team low on talent and embarking on a long rebuilding campaign, while working for an owner who doesnt have deep pockets, doesnt like to spend money on players and has been looking to sell half the team for close to a year?

Besides the Jordan issue, Sloan would also have to be willing to work under GM Rich Cho, who has been entrusted by Jordan to rebuild the team after it closed out the season with 23 straight losses and broke the NBA record by winning only 10.6% of its games.

That would be like going from being the heavyweight champ to being a sparring partner, said one Sloan confidant the other day. Why go get beat up? Why would Jerry want to be in a rebuilding situation, at this stage of his life? He doesnt take losing easy. He takes it hard.

Still, we could see Charlotte pursuing Sloan. Cho has always admired his coaching, going to back to when he was an aide in Seattle to then-GM Rick Sund, and then Sam Prestis right-hand man in Oklahoma City.

Sloans critics have been saying hes too old, pointing to how he and Deron Williams clashed in Utah during his 23rd and final season with the Jazz. But Sloan, who turned 70 in March and still acts and looks like hes 10 years younger, has turned down six head coaching offers since last season, including rebuilding situations in Detroit and Golden State. Obviously, its not as if what happened with Williams is being viewed as a negative.

The Mavericks expect Rick Carlisle to return as coach next season, president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson said Sunday.

Carlisle can become a free agent in June, when his contract expires. Nelson declined to discuss details, but he said the sides have a common ground that should lead to a new deal.

He likes us; we like him, Nelson said. Those situations generally get worked out. Ricks not going anywhere.

Carlisle declined to discuss his status but acknowledged affection for the Mavericks.

This has been a great opportunity for me and my family, Carlisle said. We love it here.

In four seasons with Carlisle, the Mavericks are 198-114 in the regular season and 23-18 in the playoffs. This was his worst season in terms of record (36-30) and being swept by Oklahoma City in the opening round of the playoffs.

He [Carlisle] did everything he could with what he had to work with, guard Jason Kidd said. We didnt make it easy on him with the injuries and stuff, but he was always prepared and always had the team ready to go.

The Warriors have granted the Charlotte Bobcats permission to interview assistant coach Michael Malone , according to multiple sources.

Charlotte, owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan, is scheduled to interview Malone on Tuesday, as first reported by Yahoo! Sports. The Bobcats fired Paul Silas last week. Charlotte finished 7-59, posting the worst win percentage (.106) in NBA history.

Malone, regarded as one of the top assistant coaches in the league, still has two years left on his contract. He's the primary Xs and Os guy for head coach Mark Jackson's staff. Malone's decade-plus of experience as an assistant coach complements Jackson, who had never coached before being hired by the Warriors.

Warriors general manager Bob Myers said he wants to keep Malone but acknowledged his top assistant would be coveted.

'When we interviewed Michael Malone , we knew he was then a hot commodity,' Myers said before the Warriors' season finale. 'We have him under contract, but again if Mike gets an opportunity to coach and be a head coach in this league, that's something he's going to do and you don't hold him back from. But we'll do everything we can and we do everything we can to hope that he stays.'

The procedure was performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles. Mbah a Moute is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for training camp in October.

Mbah a Moute, 25, missed 19 games this season due to right knee soreness and tendonitis, including the last three of the regular season. In 43 games (22 starts) this season, the four-year NBA veteran averaged a career-high 7.7 points while shooting a career-best 51.0 percent from the field. He added 5.5 rebounds in 23.5 minutes per game.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Baron Davis out 12 months with torn ACL, MCL - by Eurobasket News

Baron Davis (6'3''-PG-79, college: UCLA) has played his last game as a Knick -- and perhaps in his NBA career.

An MRI revealed that Davis suffered complete tears of his right ACL and MCL and a partial tear of his patella tendon in the third quarter of Game 4 Sunday. He will have surgery later this week, and the Knicks said the recovery time is 12 months.

Davis, 33, was dribbling upcourt on a fast break when his knee buckled. He was wheeled off on a stretcher to a standing ovation from the Garden fans.

The two-time All-Star has been plagued by injuries throughout this season, including a herniated disc in his back that sidelined him for 10 months before he made his Knicks debut. It will be hard for him to come back at 34 from this devastating knee injury. But Mike Woodson said Davis was in good spirits Sunday.

'Baron's a trouper,' Woodson said. 'One thing he did say was, 'Hey, I tried to give you all I could.' '

Davis averaged 6.1 points and 4.7 assists in the regular season and 7.8 and 3.3 in the playoffs. Mike Bibby is expected to start Game 5 Wednesdaynight.

Bibby played the last 17:15 of Game 4 and buried a huge three-pointer with 1:23 left. Woodson has faith in Bibby, who was his starting point guard all three times he made the playoffs as Hawks coach.

'Bibby has had a hell of a career in our league,' Woodson said. 'He's run a lot of basketball teams and he's been pretty good at it. He's not as fast and crafty as he used to be. But he's still capable in short minutes of running a basketball team. He's still capable of hitting a big shot. Yes, I do feel comfortable starting Bibby in a big game like that.'

Courtesy of www.newsday.com

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NCAA1

Texas A&M AD Byrne to announce retirement - by Eurobasket News

Texas A&M athletic director Bill Byrne, who oversaw the schools upcoming departure from the Big 12 and everything from national championships to the end of the storied football rivalry with Texas, is retiring.

Byrne will discuss his decision at a Tuesday afternoon news conference in College Station, a school official with knowledge of the decision. The school said only that Byrne would make an announcement regarding his future and the person spoke to The Associated Press late Monday on condition of anonymity because details had not been released.

The 66-year-old Byrne was hired at Texas A&M in December 2002 and has a contract that ends Aug. 31, 2013. School President R. Bowen Loftin said last month that the two were discussing Byrnes tenure.

Texas A&Ms programs largely flourished under Byrne, but he will be remembered primarily for the move from the Big 12 Conference to the Southeastern Conference, effective July 1.

Byrne took heavy criticism last year as it became clear that the Aggies would leave and end longtime rivalries - none of them bigger than the annual football game against the Longhorns.

Last Thanksgiving, Justin Tucker kicked a 40-yard field goal as time expired to give Texas a 27-25 victory over Texas A&M in the Aggies last Big 12 game and the 118th meeting between the bitter rivals.

The Longhorn band spelled out Thanks A&M while playing Thanks for the Memories. Earl Campbell, who won the Heisman Trophy at Texas in 1977, and Texas A&Ms John David Crow, winner of the award in 1957, watched the game sitting side by side in golf cart in the corner of the stadium.

Many had hoped to continue the game, which began in 1894 and had been played every year since 1915, but the Longhorns said their schedule is full through 2018 and made it clear there wasnt a lot of room for discussion.

A lot of the fallout was blamed on Texas decision to start its own Longhorn Network to televise its sports teams. Byrne, like others around the Big 12, didnt like the move. He and his Texas counterpart, DeLoss Dodds, differed on whether Texas A&M was offered a chance to join the Longhorns in the venture.

Texas pursuit of its own network was widely known in 2010 when Nebraska and Colorado decided to leave the Big 12, followed this year by Texas A&M and Missouri. The league is adding TCU and West Virginia.

Byrne also took a deep pride in the schools other programs, including the womens basketball team that won a national championship under Gary Blair in 2011.

Bob Gates said when he hired me that he wanted us to have the best sports program in the country, Byrne said on the eve of that championship game win over Notre Dame, referring to the former university president who is now the U.S. defense secretary. We work to do that every day.

The softball, womens swimming and diving teams, and track and field teams are usually national powerhouses, as are the womens soccer team and the equestrian team.

It hasnt been easy changing attitudes at a university that began as an all-male military school. Some alumni opposed the decision to begin admitting women in 1963, and school administrators didnt always see the advantage of funding mens and womens sports equally when Title IX passed in 1972.

While the football program flourished at times, change was slow in other sports. After Blair arrived in 2003, he and then mens coach Billy Gillispie helped raise $24 million in private funds to build a new practice facility and it made a difference.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Illinois State hires Vandy assistant Muller - by Eurobasket News

Illinois State currently holds the longest NCAA tournament drought in the Missouri Valley Conference.

The last time the Redbirds reached the Big Dance in 1998, Vanderbilt assistant coach Dan Muller was wearing a red and white uniform.

Now, the former Illinois State player will look to lead a senior-laden team back to the NCAAs as the school's new coach.

Illinois State associate athletics director Todd Kober confirmed to USA TODAY Sports that Muller was hired as the school's 19th head basketball coach early Monday night. A 5 p.m. ET news conference is scheduled for Tuesday.

Muller played at Illinois State under current Vanderbilt coach Kevin Stalling from 1995-98 and has been part of his staff in Nashville since 2000.

As a player for Illinois State, Muller won two MVC Defensive Player of the Year awards and helped lead the Redbirds to back-to-back Valley regular season and tournament titles.

Muller interviewed Thursday with ISU athletic director Gary Friedman. It was initially reported that current assistant coach Rob Judson would be the head coach Sunday, but that report turned out to be false.

Muller replaced Tim Jankovich, who left last month after five seasons to join Larry Brown's staff at SMU.

Jankovich left behind a team predicted to finish in the top half of the MVC in 2012-13, returning all starters from a team that finished 21-14 and reached the Valley Tournament championship game and the NIT second round.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Richard Pitino, FIU agree on 6-year deal - by Eurobasket News

Richard Pitino's contract with Florida International lasts for six years, one more than the sides originally agreed to when he took over as men's basketball coach last month.

Pitino's contract was 'amended and restated' on April 24, about a week after the Panthers hired him to replace Isiah Thomas. Pitino's base salary of $250,000 annually remains unchanged.

Pitino would be entitled to up to another $40,000 annually based on academic performance by the team, as well as $10,000 bonuses for leading FIU to the NCAA tournament; winning conference coach of the year; winning regular-season league championships; and each NCAA tournament victory. He would also get $100,000 for a Final Four appearance and $250,000 for winning the national championship.

His contract extends through April 15, 2018.

Courtesy of www.cleveland.com

LSU brings in 6-8 transfer Godfrey from Iowa State - by Eurobasket News

The 6-foot-8, 230-pound Godfrey, whose transfer was approved Monday, will have two years' eligibility left after spending last season at Howard College in Texas, where he averaged 12.6 points and 7 rebounds.

Godfrey played only his freshman season at Iowa State in 2010-11 before being dismissed from the team following an arrest for marijuana possession. Godfrey had also been suspended earlier that season for three Big 12 games for violating unspecified team policies.

He averaged 5.7 points and 5.4 rebounds for the Cyclones as a freshman.

Jones' first two signees were Shavon Coleman, who also played at Howard, and Shane Hammink, son of former LSU player Geert Hammink.

Arizona State's Trent Lockett (6'4''-G), the team's leading scorer last season, says he will transfer to Marquette for his senior season to be closer to his mother, who has been diagnosed with cancer.

Lockett, whose mother lives in Minnesota, already has earned a bachelor's degree in business communication from Arizona State.

In a statement released by Arizona State, Lockett thanked everyone involved in his career at the school and said the transfer was the hardest decision he's had to make. He said that while his decision is based on his mother's health, he also wanted to make a good basketball decision and Marquette is a great place to end his career.

'I have been a Sun Devil since 16,' Lockett said on his Twitter account, referring to the age at which he committed to Arizona State. 'I love and appreciate the people and experience at ASU. Saying that, I am excited to finish my last yr at MU.'

The 6-foot-5 guard was the best player the Sun Devils had the past two seasons, two of the worst in coach Herb Sendek's time at the school.

'We continue to support Trent and his family through this difficult time,' Sendek said. 'We are proud of all that he has accomplished at Arizona State, including being able to celebrate his graduation this weekend with family and friends, and know he will always be a Sun Devil at heart. We are glad he has found a good place to complete his college career close to home so he can provide support to his mom Judy and know the Sun Devil nation will continue to follow his career.'

In his first season at Arizona State, Lockett was named to the Pac-10 all-freshman team, starting 15 games for the team.

As a sophomore, Lockett earned all-Pac-10 and first team all-academic conference honors two seasons ago as a sophomore, averaging a career-best 13.4 points per game, but the team won just 12 games. Last season, he missed time due to injury but averaged team-leading totals of 13 points and 5.5 rebounds per game for a team went 10-22, 6-12 in the conference.

His departure is a serious setback for Sendek's program. Lockett was counted on as a veteran presence as the Sun Devils look to six newcomers, led by point guard Jahii Carson, to right the program.

'We continue to support Trent and his family through this difficult time,' Sendek said. 'We are proud of all that he has accomplished at Arizona State, including being able to celebrate his graduation this weekend with family and friends, and know he will always be a Sun Devil at heart. We are glad he has found a good place to complete his college career close to home so he can provide support to his mom Judy and know the Sun Devil nation will continue to follow his career.'

Lockett had asked in March to be released from his scholarship. He is the third player to leave the program, joining guard Chan Creekmur and forward Kyle Cain. Guard Keala King was dismissed during the season for violating team rules.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Breakers core re-signs - by Eurobasket News

With the release of the NBL free agents list today the SKYCITY Breakers have confirmed the re-signing of the core of the roster that secured the 2011/12 NBL Championship.

While Dillon Boucher's (196-F-75) name appears on the free agents list, Boucher agreed to a new one-year contract at around the same time the free agents list was distributed.

With six of the Championship roster confirmed as returning, and power forward BJ Anthony released from his contract, the SKYCITY Breakers have four roster spots remaining. These include the import player positions of Cedric Jackson and Gary Wilkinson, and local swing man Leon Henry.

When you have a Champion group like we have, you want to do everything you can to keep them together, said SKYCITY Breakers General Manager Richard Clarke.

I think everyone is aware of Cedrics NBA ambitions, we are definitely supporting him in trying to achieve that dream but also will do everything we can to have him as a Breaker again next season if he isnt in the NBA. We have already been in contact with Cedrics agents and will keep working towards that, said Clarke.

We have also put an offer to Gary and his agent, and would also love to see Gary back for a third season. We have to balance his role with Alexs development, but we have put an offer to Gary and should know how he wants to proceed over the next week.

Leon has made good contributions this season and is definitely in the mix to come back. We are talking with Leon and his agent currently also.

The final roster position will likely be for a back-up guard role, and final decisions on that position will be made after reviewing the free agents list and performances of local players in the New Zealand NBL.

There are some quality local players in the mix for the final roster position, Josh Bloxham is coming off a good season for us and has the opportunity to impress for Nelson, and Jarrod Kenny also spent time with us over the season and is performing well for Hawkes Bay. Lindsay Tait is as impressive as ever, and Corey Webster will also come back into the equation, said Clarke.

MICHAL MICHALAK: Studying and waiting for the future (dreaming of the NBA)

At the age of 18 - he was born on November 2nd, 1993 - Michal Michalak (194-G-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) appears as very mature. He has a clear idea about tha path he has walked to become a basketball player, and he seems to be extremely focused and determined about the next steps to reach. Maybe this is the reason of his sensational 2012 run with the jersey of LKS Lodz in the PLK League, collecting fantastic numbers but - most of all - showing to be on the right way to become a top player. Finally, he has joined INVICTUS Sports Group, just in the moment he will have to decide about his next future. And, step by step, about his career at all.

Welcome to the family of INVICTUS Sports Group You are still very young, how and why did you decide to join this agency?'I met Zoran Savic last year in November. He told me he has been following me for 2-3 years. We had good time talking for the first time. We have been in touch since then. I decided to sign with Invictus, because of great experience and professionalism of Zoran, which can help to develop my career'.

You played a great 2012 with Lodz, how do you judge the work you have done until now?'I played for two teams last season, with AZS Politechnika Warsaw I had good opportunity to make first steps in the 1st Polish Division at the beginning of the season. For the second half of the season I came back to my hometown due to some organization problems of the previous team, and that second part was very good for me, I was allowed to play many minutes and also to gain a lot of confidence and experience'.

What about your next step? Again Youth National Teams or do you dream about the call of the Senior National Team? 'Right now I have my high school exams, I will finish it on 17th of May. By the time I am preparing to the U20 National Team camps and to the U20 European Championship Division B. Concerning the Senior National Team, it would be a great distinction for me, but it will depend by coach and Federation'.

And what about the next season? Do you already know where you will play?'My present contract has expired, so now I am free agent. I don't know yet where I will play. I would like to finish my school exams and then start thinking about the best team for the future'.

Looking behind you, how and when the passion for basketball was born in you?'I started playing basketball at the age of 7. My parents brought me to the first practice. At the beginning it was just for fun, as it should be for young players, soon when first successes appeared and I started playing in Youth National Teams I started treating it seriously. But a player should never lose the joy and love of the game'.

And when did you understand that you wanted to become a professional basketball player at all?'Since I started playing basketball I always wanted to be a professional player. I would like also to graduate at University, but it would be difficult during the professional career I hope to run'.

You made very important experiences with the Polish Youth National Teams'Playing in Polish Youth National Teams gave me a lot of experience and I had the great opportunity to compete against the best players in Europe and in world. For the last four summers I was always busy, having camps and tournaments with the National Team. It gives a lot in development of young player. We have really a great team of 1993 generation in Poland, that's why we achieved the 2nd place at the U17 World Championship in 2011 and we made also good places in other tournaments as the World Championship U19 and the European Championships U16 and U18'.

Which is your day-dream in basketball for the future and your career objective? 'My dream, just like every basketball player I think, is to play in NBA one day. For the next future, I would like to have the opportunity to play and develop my skills in a good European team'.

How do you describe yourself as a player? Which are your best skills and the skills you have to workout about the most? 'I am a guard, my biggest weapon is my shooting ability, but I can also create in offense with passes, come out from staggers, run pick and rolls. I think I have to work on my body to get stronger and more athletic'.

Which was your idol in basketball or a model that inspired you?'My first NBA idol was Kobe Bryant and still he is. I like the way he plays, his desire to win and be the best'.

Piratas de Quebradillas defeated Mets de Guaynabo 110-104 led by Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, college: Sacramento St.) who had 24, David Huertas 21 and Shavlik Randolph 19.

The only game scheduled for tonight is Indios de Mayaguez at Capitanes de Arecibo.

Bayamon land Kurt Looby - by Eurobasket News

Bayamon strengthened their frontcourt. They announced the signing of Kurt Looby (208-F/C-84, college: Iowa). The Antiguan centre comes from Germany. He started the season with Ludwigsburg. Kurt Looby averaged 7.0 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game in Bundesliga. Previous season Kurt Looby spent in Greece. The centre played for DASH Peristeri. His stats read 6.5 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per appearance. Kurt Looby is not new to Puerto Rico. He used to play for Grises de Humacao back in 2009 season. The centre notched 9.4 points, 10.5 boards and 2.8 blocks per game then.

Valencia strengthened their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Taquan Dean (193-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Louisville). The guard started the season in Italy. Taquan Dean played for Sidigas Avellino. His stats read 16.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 2.0 steals per game in Seria A. Last season Taquan Dean also played for Air Avellino. He notched 14.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.2 assists per appearance. Previously the guard had stints in Greece, Spain, Italy, Russia. Taquan Dean graduated from Louisville in 2006. He was named into Conference USA All-Tournament Team in his senior season.

Jamtland Basket announced today that team captain Stefan Hellgren (190-G-86) will be back for a 6th season with the team. Hellgren had ponded retirement at age 26 only, but has decided that he has the motivation to continue playing. With his signature Jamtland will have him back along with Boakai Lalugba, Drazen Klaric, Johan Ronstrom, Jimmy Widell, Andreas Karlsson and Fredrik Rasmusson. They still hope to get league leading scorer Evaldas Zabas back as well.

Andreas Person (190-G-91) signed a one-year contract extension with LF Basket. It automatically means that Rudy Mbemba (184-G-87) is not staying with the club. Andreas Person joined LF Basket during the season from Slovenian Helios Domzale. He appeared 23 times in Basketligan averaging 7.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.4 assists. The young prospect had limited playing time in Slovenia and he decided to leave the club. He played for Helios also in 2010/11, but was getting more chance. For 29 games in domestic championship he had 6.3 ppg and 1.9 rpg. Before Helios, Andreas Person spent three years with Uppsala Basket. Before that he played for Sallen. Person got a call to join the Swedish National Team last summer. With U20, U18 and U16 Sweden he participated at many different events and usually was their best player. In 2010 he was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Division B Best Guard. In 2009, Person was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Division B Best Guard. Rudy Mbemba had 14.6 ppg, 6.3 apg, 3.6 rpg and 2.2 spg for 29 games with LF Basket this season.

Pure Youth fired past Dacin Tigers to step closer to the title. Pure Youth trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 26-19 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was guard Shih-Chieh Chen (176-84) who had a double-double by scoring 11 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists. The former international swingman Wen-Cheng Tsai (190-85) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. Four Pure Youth players scored in double figures. Pure Youth's coach Chin-Tse Hsu used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was Belizean-American power forward Noel Felix (205-81, college: Fresno St.) who recorded a double-double by scoring 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international forward Lei Tien (203-83) added 23 points and 4 assists respectively. Top scorers:Pure Youth: H.Chen 19+4reb, W.Tsai 12+10reb+3ast, S.Chen 11+11reb+8ast, Q.Davis 10+8reb, D.Creighton 8+4reb+1ast, T.Lin 5+2rebDacin Tigers: L.Tien 23+4reb+4ast, N.Felix 19+11reb+4ast, T.Chen 7+2reb, Y.Lo 7+5reb, C.Wang 5+3reb+2ast, Y.Lin 4+5reb

Fenerbahce Ulker lost the first quarterfinal game in the Beko Basketball League playoffs. Besiktas Milangaz beat the defending champion in overtime with 96-94. Ulker had a small lead during most of the game, but foul trouble (37 personal fouls) haunted Fener in the end. Top scorer for Ulker was Omer Onan with 24 points, James Gist added 16, Roko-Leni Ukic 15.

James Gist opened the score for Fenerbahce in the first period. After 6-6 equality Besiktas managed to create a small gap, but at 14-11 Ulker closed ranks. Pops Mensah Bonsu and Baris Hersek remained effective for the home side, but lead by James Gist Fenerbahce caught up with the hosts and took the lead again. A basket by David Hawkins closed the first period with 25-25 equality.

In the first minutes of the second period the balance in scores initially continued. Scores by Bonsu and Serhat and a three-point score by Zoran Erceg pulled up the advantage for the hosts to to 5 points, 36-31. Ulker took a break, broke the silence with a score by Bojan Bogdanovic, caught up again and finished the first half with a 42-45 lead.

In the beginning of the third period both teams had troubles finding the basket. David Hawkins finally opened the score for Besiktas, and shortly after the home team balanced the scores again: 47-47. Neither team managed to create a substantial gap after that, and Omer Onan's basket had Fenerbahce Ulker completed the third period ahead with 59-60.

In the fourth period Fenerbahce took a a 59-63 lead. Besiktas closed in to 65-67 within 37 minutes. James Gist and Emir Preldzic remained effective in the last minutes of the period, but a three-point score by Carlos Arroyo put the home crowd on fire and the game to overtime: 81-81.

In the extension period both teams were offensively effective. After 2.5 minutes, the scores were still balanced: 86-86. In spite of growing foul trouble for Fenerbahce equal ongoing baskets took the scores to 94-94, but in the end Besiktas delivered the final blow and sent a disappointed Fenerbahce home with a 96-94 defeat.

On Wednesday, Fenerbahce will try to equalize the series to 1-1 at home.

ST. CROIX--The Super 12 is something that is asked about by players all over the Virgin Islands. Gentlemen it is here and it is done. I know in the past it was posted a week after the All Star game but I was tied up. Here it is and enjoy. I have hired a secret agent who has seen many basketball players and the person gave me a break down of each player with what they do best and what they need to do to improve. On another sad note, our number one player Nayib Gonzalez has been whisked away to Puerto Rico for treatment. I know this Nayib or Nahbo since he was ten years old. You are in my prayers. Get well soon.

12. Jamari Benjamin, 6-4, Forward, Eudora Kean, Class of 2015COMMENT: Benjamin dwarfed many at the junior varsity level. He may be the next big thing from the Virgin Islands. The 6-foot-4 forward is a great shot blocker and probably averaged seven blocks per contest. Secret scout said: He is a very good defender especially on the offensive side. His shot blocking and defensive timing are exceptional. He is a really good shooter and capable of shooting free throws at a high percentage. NEEDS: He knows how to find the ball on the offensive end. Not really that good in the post, not strong enough and could use the summer to improve ball handling.

11. Rowhann David, 5-10, Guard, Eudora Kean, Class of 2013COMMENT: David is one of the better returning players from Kean High. He has knocked down a couple of threes at pivotal moments and his production should increase with the recent departures. Secret scout said: Davids game is easy to dissect. He is a decent shooter, a very good defender and most of all plays hard. He gives his all on the court and hopefully it spreads on his team this year.NEEDS: Strength, ball handling and shooting. David needs to work hard in the off season.

10. Robert Sanes, 5-7, Guard, Central High, Class of 2015COMMENT: Sanes personifies speed; he goes from zero to sixty in five seconds. Sanes had a game-high 18 points to lead Central to a 73-30 victory over visiting Antilles School at the Central High School Basketball Tournament in February. The diminutive one is a very good defender and shooter for his size. NEEDS: Improve ball handling, passing, knowledge of the game and overall team defense.

9. Dominick Purpura, 6-1, Forward, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2013COMMENT: The enigma that is Purpura. He looks great in practice but has yet to put it all together in an actual game. You have one more year to prove me wrong. Secret scout said: Offensively, Purpura is a very good open court player. He finishes everything around the basket. However that is all he does.NEEDS: Where do I begin? Purpura needs to improve everything. He is an average ball handler, not a great shooter, and only rebounds on the offensive side. He needs to hit the weight room. My newborn could bench more than him.

8. Elisha Arnold, 6-1, Guard, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2013COMMENT: Arnold has had a couple of notable games this season. Arnold knocked down two 3-pointers and finished with a game-high 15 points to lead the Chickenhawks to a 63-47 victory over host Ivanna Eudora Kean High School in a St. Thomas-St. John IAA varsity basketball game. He also had 10 points in a 66-39 win over Immaculate High School in the opening game of the 2011 Puerto Rico Hoops Championship. Secret scout said: Arnold is a good ball handler, defender, rebounder and finishes well. NEEDS: if you saw the all star game, you know his major problem. TURNOVERS. He tries to squeeze the ball between two defenders. He may get away with that on a football field but this is basketball. He relies on the outside shot and not a great shooter.

7. Yannick Toure, 6-4, Forward, Educational Complex, Class of 2013COMMENT: Toure finished with a game-high 17 points leading the Barracudas' over Central, 65-64, in the regular season. Toure showed a lot of promise in that game and the Sun Stroke All Star game. He had six points and four rebounds in limited duty. Secret scout said: Toure has a great feel for the game in the post. He has an outside shot and a strong will to win. NEEDS: He is physically weak with the ball. Improve defense and rebounding.

6. Jordan Evans, 6-3, Forward, Country Day, Class of 2013COMMENT: The High-flyer went off for a career-high of 43 points in a win. Evans also threw down 15 dunks in the game. He also tallied 10 steals, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Secret scout said: Has great speed, good jumper, and good finisher at the rim, decent penetrator. NEEDS: Cant go left to save his life, improve ball handling and a jump shot.

5. J'Moi Smith, 5-10, Guard, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2013COMMENT: Those five three pointers he rained on Eudora Kean sticks out in my mind. Smith was probably five of-eight in that game and declined on many other offerings. Another moment of Smiths was when he scored 17 points to lead CAHS to a 44-34 victory over Central High in the championship game of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Invitational Basketball Tournament. Secret scout said: His basketball IQ is outstanding, he has a basketball mind. He is a good shooter and a better scorer.NEEDS: Like most on this list, Smith needs to get stronger. He is way too weak. His ball handling is suspect, not a good on ball defender but is great help defender.

4. Stephaun Adams, 6-1, Guard, Educational Complex, Class of 2014COMMENT: I was calling the Sun Stroke All V.I. Hoop Classic with Carlos Vasquez and he basically fell in love with Adams game. Carlos was ready to be his agent. Why Adams was huge for the St. Croix squad in the fourth quarter, scoring 11 of his 13 points in the period to help carry his team to the 75-69 win. Carlos and the rest of the basketball world have to wait because Adams is only a sophomore. Secret scout said: He is the truest point guard in the territory. He sees the floor very well, a great passer and is very strong. NEEDS: Strength on the ball, quicker with his lateral movements, improves his outside shot and defense.

3. Turrel Thomas, 6-4, Forward, Central High, Class of 2015COMMENT: Thomas is a phenom on the court. He has long arms and when he decides to make his presence know there is no one in the territory that could stop him. He came off the bench and was relegated to shooting three pointers for the Caribs. This season the real Thomas could have people thinking about CHARLES BARKELY. Secret scout said: Could shoot it from anywhere on the court. He has a high basketball IQ and has great size.NEEDS: Conditioning; out of shape, to be a better team player and accept coaching.

2. Sekayi Petersen, 5-10, Guard, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2013COMMENT: The best player on St. Thomas scored when and whenever he wanted. Petersen finished with a game-high 18 points leading CAHS to a 44-34 victory over Central High in the championship game of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Invitational Basketball Tournament. He was also named MVP of the tournament and he helped CAHS to the finals of the Eudora Kean Basketball Tournament. He showed his versatility by putting up 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists for the St. Thomas All Stars at the All VI Hoop Classic. Secret scout said: His IQ is high; he is great in the open court. For his size he is a good rebounder and good finisher.NEEDS: He is a decent shooter and that includes free throw shooting. His passing game needs to improve and his ball handling could get better.

1. Nayib Gonzalez, 6-0, Guard, Central High, Class of 2013COMMENT: Gonzales had scored only four points before the fourth quarter, but that's when the Central High School boys basketball needed him the most. The junior scored on a runner in the paint with seven seconds left to lift the Caribs to a thrilling 50-48 victory over Charlotte Amalie High School in the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School Invitational Tournament boys championship. Gonzales finished with 11 points in the game and was named MVP. That is Gonzalez very explosive and delivers in the clutch. Secret scout said: great shooter, penetrator and solid defender.NEEDS: Play more basketball; improve basketball knowledge to take his team to the next level. Get a lot stronger.

While the season ended in major disappointment for John Lavery and his valiant Cheshire Jets side who almost shot down treble winners Newcastle Eagles to book their place in the BBL Play-Off Final at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham on Saturday, Colin O'Reilly (200-F-84, college: Post) was at least satisfied with a very productive campaign and a great finish to an up and down season.

The Ireland national team star expressed particular satisfaction with finally finding full fitness and with it, some excellent form which helped propel the Jets into the play-offs and to the verge of a major upset.

For the first 16 months of my time with the Jets I have been struggling with the ankle injury I sustained when I more or less first arrived.

However now I am healthier and feeling stronger its been about just getting more and more used to the league for me and learning to get the most out of the system we are running for myself but most importantly the team.

We still ran much of Paul Smiths system for most of the season and that helped us in some ways.

We also brought in a couple of smart players and I think overall we have been a very good defensive unit especially in the last part of the season.

Of course for long periods, it looked like the Jets might not make it to the play-offs and OReilly admitted he and his team-mates were sweating on their place.

Only a month or two ago I think we were in tenth spot and we just didnt have the numbers and things like foul trouble were taking a toll on us.

But, but when we brought the likes of Kai (Williams) in it helped us a lot and you saw the difference as we went on a run.

We always knew the core and original four on the team could ensure we were always in the game until the final minutes but we just needed that extra depth and those extra bodies to turn to in order to get the wins we needed.

The Jets blowing their big opportunity to reach the BBL Play-Off Final was obviously a significant disappointment since they led the Eagles by 28 points at one stage in the semi-final tie and particularly so since according to OReilly it would have been rich reward for the hard working staff at the club.

We really wanted to play in the Championship Play-Off Final for the people who work so hard for the Jets and for all of the volunteers. I dont know every single persons name but they know who they are.

From the backroom staff to the court crew on game days at the Northgate, these are the people who we always count on and play for because Cheshire is all about togetherness and is a real family club.

While the Jets failed to reach the Final, it looks to be a mouth-watering match up as the top two teams in the league go head-to-head in Saturdays showpiece game at the National Indoor Arena. To get closer to the action and watch Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders against Newcastle Eagles click here for ticket information.

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URUGUAY

Uruguay named new HC; his assistant will be an American coach - by Hector Lopez

Bucaneros - Guaiqueries 85-89Bucaneros were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Guaiqueries held Bucaneros to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. American forward Christopher Jeffries (199-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) stepped up and scored 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Diego Guevara (184-77, college: Charlotte) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists. American guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-82, college: Cumberlands) responded with 23 points and 8 rebounds and the former international swingman Carlos Cedeno (193-85, college: Frank Phillips JC) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Top scorers:Guaiqueries: C.Jeffries 19+9reb+2ast, D.Guevara 15+4reb+6ast, T.Cobos 15+7reb, C.Silva 12+3reb, A.Wright 11+4reb, R.Lugo 8+10reb+2astBucaneros: L.Hickerson 23+8reb+1ast, C.Cedeno 14+4reb+10ast, R.Guevara 14+1reb+1ast, S.Henry 13+1reb+1ast, A.Barrios 9+2reb, H.Bayona 4+7reb+1ast

gschID: 175505

Trotamundos - Gigantes 101-89The game was mostly controlled by Trotamundos. Gigantes managed to win third quarter 23-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Trotamundos held Gigantes to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. 29 personal fouls committed by Gigantes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward Trey Gilder (206-85, college: Northwestern St.) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. His fellow American import point guard Booker Woodfox (185-86, college: Creighton, agency: Strategic Sports) chipped in 23 points. Five Trotamundos players scored in double figures. American-Mexican point guard Paul Stoll (178-85) produced 32 points, 6 assists and 4 steals and German-American forward Julian Sensley (206-82, college: Hawaii, agency: VVG Sports) added 14 points respectively for the guests. Gigantes' coach Carl Herrera rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Trotamundos have a solid series of three victories in a row. Top scorers:Trotamundos: T.Gilder 23+10reb+6ast, B.Woodfox 23+1reb+2ast, D.Lewis 20+3reb+1ast, S.Pruitt 16+7reb+2ast, R.Perez 10+3reb+4ast, T.Aguilera 5+1reb+2astGigantes: P.Stoll 32+3reb+6ast, J.Sensley 14+3reb+3ast, A.Feeley 10+6reb+2ast, P.Brito 8+5reb, J.Juan Bravo 7+4reb+1ast, D.Macuare 7+2ast

American Trey Gilder (206-F-85) had a very impressive game in the last round for league's leader Trotamundos and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 5 (Second Stage). The 26-year old forward had a double-double of 13 points and thirteen rebounds, while his team beat Gigantes (#3, 2-6) 95-81. Gilder averages this season 15.6ppg, 9.0rpg and 4.8apg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American point guard Paul Stoll (178-PG-85) of Gigantes. Stoll impressed basketball fans with 32 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists. Bad luck as Gigantes lost that game 89-101 to Trotamundos (#1, 4-2). Stoll is one of the most experienced players at Gigantes and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.6ppg (#8). He also recorded 6.8 assists per game.

The third best performed player last round was former international swingman Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) of Bucaneros. Cedeno scored 14 points and passed ten assists (!!!). Despite Cedeno's great performance Bucaneros lost 85-89 to Guaiqueries. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Cedeno has a very solid season. In 40 games in Venezuela he scored 7.8ppg.

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U17

Standings

Standings

Group A

1. Australia

0-0

2. China

0-0

3. Czech Rep.

0-0

4. Egypt

0-0

5. France

0-0

6. USA

0-0

Group B

1. Argentina

0-0

2. Canada

0-0

3. Croatia

0-0

4. Spain

0-0

5. S.Korea

0-0

6. Lithuania

0-0

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Women News

Farewell Series provides London preview - by Eurobasket News

Jayco Australian Opals head coach Carrie Graf says that her teams three-game Farewell Series basketball tournament against South American powerhouse Brazil in June has taken on a whole new importance following Tuesday mornings draw for London 2012.

The draw, which was conducted in Rio by the world governing body of basketball FIBA, saw the Jayco Australian Opals pooled along with Brazil in Group B for London, meaning the two sides will get an early look at each other in Victoria in June.

Graf says that the Farewell Series, which tips off with a big double-header clash at Melbournes Hisense Arena with the Australian Boomers on Sunday June 24, will be the perfect preparation for the team before they depart for London.

In our planning phase we had to make some calculated guesses on playing appropriate opponents from the different nations and then picking some key opponents that we figured we would meet at some point in the tournament and I guess we got lucky in that sense, in that weve got Brazil early and we play them before we leave Australia, Graf said.

Our game against Brazil once the tournament starts is a must-win game in our pool, and playing them in the Farewell Series means well know them inside out, and thats a big positive for us, she said.

According to Graf, competing against a side as opposed to scouting them from the stands offers a great deal of additional and invaluable insight, not only in gaining a sense of their strengths and weaknesses as individuals, but also as a group.

It means we go in well-prepared for their style of play and their individual talent, but it also gives us a good sense of ourselves competing against them.

Traditionally the Jayco Opals have played Brazil in series like this on our soil before major tournaments and its always set us up well and I think its a good thing again, Graf said.

As well as the Australia-Brazil match-up in the womens competition, the Farewell Series will also see the Boomers take on European superpower Greece.

Castors Braine add experienced Kirby Copeland (182-G-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia Tech) for the next season. The Belgian team added the American player to their roster. Kirby can play positions 1-3 but natural position is the 2-spot. She is a very tough and aggressive player on both offense and defense. She is one of the best little scrappy quick guards out there with a pair of quick hands. Kirby is a solid three-point shooter, has improve her three-point shot over the course of her career and also has a nice mid-range game, but her strength is getting to the basket and creating opportunities for others or herself. After graduating from Virginia Tech (NCAA) in 2007-2008 she moved to Coca-Cola Rhonnda Rebels (United Kingdom-EBL, starting five) and in EuroCup after 8 games averaged 16.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 56.8%. In 2008-2009 played for Challes-les-Eaux Basket (France-LFB, starting five) and in French League showed 7.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 56.5%. In another season for the French side she had 10.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 40.3%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 62.9%Last season Kirby Copeland joined Catz Lappeenranta (Finland-SM-sarja, starting five) and in 30 games had high 15.9ppg, 7.9rpg, Assists-3 (2.9apg), Steals-1 (2.9spg), FGP: 46.7%, FT: 66.7%.

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CANADA

Tamara Tatham's double-double lands her Player of the Week award among Canadians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Canadians who are currently playing abroad.

#1. This week's number one is an international forward Tamara Tatham (187-85, college: Massachusetts). She led SV Halle Lions to a victory over the closely-ranked Wildcats Wolfenbuettel (9-13) 74-67 in the German DBBL in Saturday night's game.
Tatham was MVP of the game. She had a double-double by scoring 26 points and getting 14 rebounds. Tatham also added 3 assists, 2 blocks and 3 steals in 39 minutes on the court.
SV Halle Lions (11-11) is placed seventh in the DBBL.
Tatham is ranked second on the list of the top scorers in the league and also on the list of best rebounders (second place).
She has individually a very good year with high stats. Tatham averages: 20.9ppg, 10.5rpg, 2.8apg, 3.0spg, 2FGP: 61.1%(187-306) and FT: 74.6% in the 26 games she played so far.
She is currently a member of the Canadian senior national team.

#2. Second place goes to an international swingman Melissa Colborne (183-88, college: Yale), who plays in the German 2.Bundesliga (12th division). Colborne could not help TSV Amicitia (14-6) in their last game on Sunday. Despite her very good performance the second-placed TSV Amicitia was defeated 79-65 on the road by the lower-ranked Don Bosco Bamberg (#8) in the South group.
Colborne recorded a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 13 rebounds.
It's Colborne's first season with the team.
She has relatively good stats this year: 12.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 49.3% and FT: 71.2%.
Colborne is in the roster of the Canadian senior national team.

#3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Jenifer Nadalin (187-83, college: Furman). She was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Familia Schio (18-4) in their game against Taranto (20-2) in the Italian A1.
Nadalin scored 8 points in 23 minutes.
Familia Schio lost 56-65 on the opponent's court to the leading Taranto.
This year Nadalin's overall stats are: 6.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 46.6% and FT: 69.4% in the 31 games.
She has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Italian.
Despite Nadalin played previously for the Italian national team, she is currently a member of the Canadian senior national team.

#4. Swingman Katie Donovan (182-82) was the major contributor in a Basket Esch's victory against the leader Musel Pikes (23-5) crushing them 91-42 in the Luxembourg Diekirch League in Saturday night's game.
Donovan scored 14 points and added 5 assists.
It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group 1-6 places. Basket Esch (15-9) is placed first.
It was her team's seventh consecutive victory in a row.
There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical.
Donovan is currently ninth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best passers (third place).
This season she has very high stats. Donovan averages: 16.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.1apg and 1.5spg.
Despite she played previously for the Italian national team, Donovan is currently in the Canadian U20 national team roster.

#5. Former international guard Renata Adamczyk (175) managed to help T71 Dudelange in a victory against the fifth-ranked Residence (12-16) 66-52 in the Luxembourg Diekirch League last Saturday.
She scored only 4 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in 26 minutes.
T71 Dudelange (14-14) is placed fourth in 1-6 places group.
There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial.
This year Adamczyk has relatively solid stats: 12.4ppg, 9.8rpg, 1.1apg and 2.7spg in the 12 games.
She is another player who holds two passports: Polish and Canadian.
Adamczyk used to play for the Canadian national team
nine years ago.

Notice: The list above includes only some of the Canadian playing currently abroad. Go to Canadian Abroad Page to see completed list.

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CHILE

Ziomara Morrison scored 10 points in her first WNBA game - by Daniel Valencia

Preparing the new WNBA season, the San Antonio Silver Stars played their first preseason game. This was the first game as an WNBA player for the chilean center Ziomara Morrison (193-C-89, agency: Regeneracom Sports). In the loss against the Indiana Fever (69-67), the NT player scored 10 points. The next preseason game will be held this wednesday against the same team.

WBC 'Novi Zagreb' strengthened their roster with previous player of Studenac Omis, Tea Buzov (174-G-90). Tea began his career in the WBC Splicanka, and in the last two years was one of the best players of WNC Studenac Omis.'Novi Zagreb' has announced a facelift of the team for the new season, with the aim of winning the Croatian League and Cup tittle. Club is also planning to play Eurocup and Adriatic league. This season, they were playing Cup finals vs. Gospic, which was the biggest result in team history and were runner-up of championship, losing in the semis against Jolly Sibenik, which was a big disappointment for everyone in the club.

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EUROLEAGUE

Spartak Moscow Region keep All-Euroleague Guard of the Year - by Eurobasket News

Spartak Moscow Region keep All-Euroleague Guard of the Year for the next season. Seimone Augustus (187-G-84, college: LSU) will stay with the team in 2012/2013 campaign.In 2011-2012 she joined Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (Russia-PBL, starting five) and in Euroleague averaged 16.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 85.5%. In Russian League her stats read14.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 81.4%.Only this season she reached Russian Cup Semifinals -12, became Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Guard of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague 1st Team -12 and Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Europeans Team -12. She participated at the Euroleague Final Eight -12 and became Russian Superleague Finalist -12. Seimone Augustus received Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Honorable Mention -12 and 2011-2012 All-United States Awards (Voted by All USA Sports Reporters) Player of the Year -12,Together with Spartak they finished 6th in Final Eight Euroleague campaign. Galatasaray wrapped up their Euroleague season with victory. They overcame Spartak MR in Istanbul to finish in the fifth place. Seimone Augustus responded with 15 points for Spartak MR.

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FRANCE

Amanda Houts remains with Union Hainaut - by Eurobasket News

Amanda Houts (168-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) remains with Union Hainaut for the next season. The American Points Guard will play her second season with the French side. After four years with Georgia (NCAA) she was drafted by New York Liberty (WNBA, 2rd (16)). In 2010 moved to Washington Mystics (WNBA) and after 21 games averaged 0.8ppg. In 2010-2011 signed at Elitzur Netanya (Israel-D1, starting five) and showed 15.4ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.9apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 43.9%, FT: 84.6%. In 2011-2012 moved to Union Saint-Amand Porte du Hainaut (France-LFB, starting five) and in French League had 9.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 73.9%. In EuroCup her stats read 9.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-2 (2.9spg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 76.0%.Amanda Houts recorded 25 points last season for Union Hainaut. It happened in Round 7 when the team beat Aix-en-Provence 88:78. The American player also added 4 assists, 2 rebounds and 2 steals to her points.

Aldo Corno leaves Challes-les-Eaux - by Eurobasket News

Le Dauphine reported then Aldo Corno (agency: LBM Management ) leaves Challes-les-Eaux. Lovewomensbasketball.com also confirmed that the Italian Coach will be released. The Italian Specialist worked with the Italian national team, being the head coach from 1985 to 1991, from 1994 to 1995, from 1999 to 2004. He won Silver medal at UNIVERSIADI of Korea and MEDITERRANEAN GAMES of Tunisia. As a head coach of clubs he took part to 14 EuroLeague, always in the semifinals, 10 times in final and 6 times winner.He joined Challes-les-Eaux Basket (France-LFB) women team in 2009-2010 and stayed with the team until the end of this season. One of the reasons was the loss in the Semifinals of the League. Third crucial game of the LFB Semis between Lattes Montpellier and Challes ended with 2-1 record.. The home squad celebrated 52-47 victory and booked a spot for the Finals.

Elodie Godin wins the double in Italy - by Eurobasket News

Elodie Godin (190-C-85) finished impressive season last night. The French center and her team Cras Taranto won the Italian Serie A title with perfect 3-0 in the Finals. They outplayed Familia Schio 72-58 in Game Three. Godin had 9 points and 10 rebounds for 33 minutes on the court. Earlier this season Taranto already won the Cup trophy (78-57 against Familia Schio). Elodie Godin joined Taranto in 2008 and this is her third championship title with the club. She appeared 30 times in the league this season averaging 7.1 points and 7.1 rebounds. She also added 9.9 ppg and 6.2 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. Before Taranto, Elodie Godin played for USK Praha and Valenciennes. Before that she spent few years with Bourges. She won two LFB titles and three French cups in her career. Godin also played for the French National Team from 2003 to 2010.

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HUNGARY

Rivas Ecopolis signs Katalin Honti - by Eurobasket News

Katalin Honti (175-G-87) will play at least one more season in Spain. The Hungarian guard penned a deal with Rivas Ecopolis. She spent last season with Ros Casares winning the Euroleague and Spanish league titles with them. Honti appeared 27 times in LFB last season averaging 4.1 points, 2.7 assists and 1.5 rebounds. She also added 2.7 ppg and 2.2 apg for 16 Euroleague games. Katalin Honti joined Ros Casares last summer from MKB Euroleasing. She spent more than seven years with the Soproni team. They won four Hungarian league titles together. In 2010, she was named Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Guard of the Year. Katalin Honti is active member of the Hungarian National Team since 2008.

Rita Rasheed (180-F-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) signed a 2-year contract with UNI SEAT Gyor and will enter another season with the team. The Hungarian Forward will remain with the defending Champions. This season she averaged 11.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 82.3% in EuroLeague and in Hungarian League showed 12.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.3apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 80.0%. Her UNI SEAT shocked UNIQA Euroleasing in decisive Game Five and won Hungarian league title. UNI SEAT players shined when it mattered most and outplayed UNIQA Euroleasing as a guest 55-61. It was a decisive Game Five of the Finals and UNI SEAT won the Hungarian league title for season 2011/12. This is the first title for UNI SEAT in the club's history. This year she became Hungarian Cup Finalist -12 and was named Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Forward of the Year -12. She made it into Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League 1st Team -12 and became Eurobasket.com Hungarian League All-Domestic Players Team -12. Together with her team she became Hungarian League Regular Season Runner-Up -12 and was Hungarian League Champion -12.

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LATVIA

Zenta Melnika wins the title and Cup in Italy - by Eurobasket News

In March Zenta Melnika (197-C-91, agency: FCM) left Greek team Asteras Exarheion Athens for Cras Tarano and it was a great move by the player. In only two months Melnika won the Italian Cup and championship title with Taranto. They outplayed Familia Schio last night 72-58 closing the Finals with perfect 3-0. Earlier this season, Taranto was better than Familia Schio in the Cup Finals. As mentioned above, Zenta Melnika joined Taranto at the beginning of March. She got a chance in 9 Serie A1 games averaging 1.2 points and 2.8 rebounds. The playing time was pretty limited for Melnika, but experience for the player was huge as she joined the club in the most important part of the season. Before Taranto, Zenta Melnika shined with Asteras. She had 12.7 ppg, 12 rpg and 1.8 bpg for 19 games in Greece. For her performance Melnika was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Greek League 2nd Team -12. The center joined Asteras in 2006 as a teenager.

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MALTA

Luxol make it 2-2 in title series - by Eurobasket News

Luxol celebrated a crucial win in the title series. They stole a road win over Loyola 59:55 to draw things level at 2-2 in the series. The decisive fifth game is scheduled for Sunday. Loyola entered the game hopeful of clinching the title. The hosts surged ahead for a 16:11 lead after ten minutes. Loyola stretched the margin in the second frame. They accumulated a 32:23 halftime lead. Loyola stayed in charge in the third term. They made it 50:39 with ten minutes remaining in regulation. But Luxol opened the fourth stanza on an 11:2 run to narrow the deficit. Beverly Zammit (178-G/F-87) drained a three-pointer to tie things up at 55. Beverly Zammit then added two points to put Luxol in front. Desarae Johnson (185-F-88, college: Jacksonville) missed two free throws allowing Luxol to seal the victory at the end. Robin Murphy (183-F, college: S.Mississippi) knocked down 27 points to pace Luxol. Mandi Sciortino added 11 points in the winning effort. Desarae Johnson answered with 16 points for Loyola. Christina Grima (168-PG-89) netted 13 points in the los.

Mike Beaumont has been hired as director of basketball operations for the Tennessee women's basketball program.

He replaces Kathy Harston, who has resigned to pursue other opportunities.

Since 2008, Beaumont has been assistant athletics director for football operations at Ole Miss. He joins the staff of new Tennessee coach Holly Warlick, who succeeded Pat Summitt when Summitt became coach emeritus. Important changes at Tennessee inthe last 30 days.

Georgetown is promoting Keith Brown to head coach of its women's basketball team.

Monday's announcement by the school comes more than a week after a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press that Brown would be getting the job.

Brown has been an assistant coach at Georgetown for the last five seasons, including three consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.

He succeeds Terri Williams-Flournoy, who left Georgetown last month after eight seasons to coach Auburn. The Hoyas went 23-9 this season before losing to Georgia Tech in the second round of the NCAA tournament.

Brown spent 11 years as an AAU coach before coming to Georgetown in 2007.

Courtesy of http://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

USBA All Stars register three wins in Xiangyang - by Eurobasket News

USBA All Stars posted three wins in a row on their China Tour. They win all of their games in Xiangyang. USBA All Stars opened against Australia. The North American team claimed a 66:39 victory. They established a 37:21 lead at halftime and rolled to the victory afterwards. Talisa Rhea (5'11''-G) accounted for 12 points. Natalie Day (6'0''-G/F-90) and Katie Bussey (5'9''-G-90) added 10 points each for the winners. Next USBA All Stars faced New Zealand. The Americans fired off to a 26:6 start to the game and cruised to the victory. Jasmin Holliday (6'0''-G/F-90) delivered 13 points for the winners. Katie Bussey and Casey Garrison (5'11''-G) accounted for 11 points each in the victory. USBA All Stars finished their China Tour on a high note. They held off Chinese B National Team 65:55.

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NEW ZEALAND

Junior Tall Ferns lose three more in China - by Eurobasket News

Junior Tall Ferns slipped at 0-9 overall record on their Tour of China. The Kiwis suffered three straight defeats in Xiangyang to wrap up their campaign. First New Zealand faced Chinese B National Team. The hosts dominated from start to finish posting a 108:44 victory. Stella Beck and Rhaiah Spooner-Knight knocked down 8 points apiece in the losing effort. Next the Junior Tall Ferns took on USBA All Stars. The North American team jumped to a 26:6 lead in the first quarter and never looked back en route to an 84:36 win. New Zealand finished their tour against Australian counterparts. The Kiwis were ahead by three points 25:22 at the first break. But Australia quickly gained the lead and posted a 45:35 halftime lead. The Aussies outscored their opponents 15:5 in the third term and rallied to the victory at the end. Stella Beck delivered 11 points for New Zealand. Deena Franklin contributed 10 points in the loss.

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POLAND

Lotos Gdynia farewell to Javier Fort - by Eurobasket News

Lotos Gdynia farewell to Javier Fort (agency: FCM ). According to lovewomensbasketball.com and the official website of Lotos, the Spanish Head Coach will not be coming back to the Polish side next season.As a Head Coach he started with Rivas Futura (LFB) in 2008 and worked for 4 seasons. In 2011-2012 he moved to Lotos Gdynia (Poland-PLKK) women team and worked for one year.In the beginning of the season Javier Fort (agency: FCM ) became Head Coach of Lotos Gdynia. For his Awards/Achievements we can include promotion to the Spanish LFB Semifinals (2010, 2011) and win the Spanish LFB Cup (2011). The Spanish team led by Javier Fort (agency: FCM ) twice advanced to the Euroleague 1/8 final.In the previous season the Head Coach of Lotos Gdynia was Dariusz Raczynski . After the first part of the season he was replaced by Georgios Dikaioulakos.Lotos Gdynia will announce the Head Coach later.

PLKK established new kind of trophy. Malgorzata Dydek (213-C-74)'s statuettes are given for the best domestic rebounder and for the best domestic player in blocks in entire PLKK. It will be a new tradition in PLKK. After 2011/2012 season cups went to Leona Jankowska (190-C-77) (best polish rebounder) and Agnieszka Majewska (195-C-82) (for the best score in blocks).

Leona Jankowska is 35 year-old center, who has two passports: Polish and Czechs. She has been playing in Poland for 8 years. She is still connected with clubs from lodzkie voivodeship. In 2011/2012 she was representing Widzew Lodz. She grabbed 8, 5 rebounds per game 5th score in entire league but first from domestic players.

Agnieszka Bibrzycka is back with the National Team. She missed 2011 due to pregnancy. Also, it is not sure will Ewelina Kobryn play for Poland this year. The player is expected to join the WNBA team Seattle Storm this week. Poland is placed to Qualification Group B. Their rivals will be Montenegro, Switzerland, Estonia and Serbia. Two best teams from the pool will book a spot for the EuroBasket. There are five groups in total.

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RUSSIA

Candidates for Russian National Team announced - by Eurobasket News

Head Coach of the Russian National Team Boris Sokolovskiy named 22 (20+2) candidates for the Russian National Team. The NT camp starts on May 27.

There is no Ekaterina Ruzanova (177-PG-82), Svetlana Abrosimova (187-F-80, college: Connecticut) and Anastasia Logunova (188-C-90) among the candidates. The absence of Abrosimova from the list coach Boris Sokolovskiy explained with her small playing time over the past two seasons. Becky Hammon will join the preparations in mid July. Russia is placed to Group B of the 2012 Olympics. Their rivals will be Great Britain, Brazil and Australia. Two more teams will be added to this group, but they will be known after the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Spartak Moscow Region keep All-Euroleague Guard of the Year - by Eurobasket News

Spartak Moscow Region keep All-Euroleague Guard of the Year for the next season. Seimone Augustus (187-G-84, college: LSU) will stay with the team in 2012/2013 campaign.In 2011-2012 she joined Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (Russia-PBL, starting five) and in Euroleague averaged 16.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 85.5%. In Russian League her stats read14.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 81.4%.Only this season she reached Russian Cup Semifinals -12, became Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Guard of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague 1st Team -12 and Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Europeans Team -12. She participated at the Euroleague Final Eight -12 and became Russian Superleague Finalist -12. Seimone Augustus received Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Honorable Mention -12 and 2011-2012 All-United States Awards (Voted by All USA Sports Reporters) Player of the Year -12,Together with Spartak they finished 6th in Final Eight Euroleague campaign. Galatasaray wrapped up their Euroleague season with victory. They overcame Spartak MR in Istanbul to finish in the fifth place. Seimone Augustus responded with 15 points for Spartak MR.

Fenerbahce eye Irina Osipova - by Eurobasket News

According to pota6.com Irina Osipova (196-C/F-81) can move to Fenerbahce. The Russian player will leave Spartak Moscow Region where she played for 7 seasons. Irina Osipova is Russian Center that actually in 2004 started for Elizur Ramla (Israel-D1). In 18 games she averaged 12.1ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.8spg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 53.0%. In her first season for Spartak Moscow Region her stats read 0.3ppg, 0.3rpg, 0.1apg in Russian League and in EuroCup 2.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 0.0apg.The season 2011-2012 for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (PBL, starting five) she showed 6.4ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 50.0%, FT: 73.7% in EuroLeague and in Russian League had 7.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.4spg, Blocks-4 (1.3bpg), FGP: 50.7%, FT: 76.2%. Irina Osipova is also a Russian National Team member. Sokolovskiy included her for the Olympics. Fenerbahce already confirmed Matovic Ivana, McCoughtry Angel and Pondexter Cappie.

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SPAIN

Rivas Ecopolis signs Katalin Honti - by Eurobasket News

Katalin Honti (175-G-87) will play at least one more season in Spain. The Hungarian guard penned a deal with Rivas Ecopolis. She spent last season with Ros Casares winning the Euroleague and Spanish league titles with them. Honti appeared 27 times in LFB last season averaging 4.1 points, 2.7 assists and 1.5 rebounds. She also added 2.7 ppg and 2.2 apg for 16 Euroleague games. Katalin Honti joined Ros Casares last summer from MKB Euroleasing. She spent more than seven years with the Soproni team. They won four Hungarian league titles together. In 2010, she was named Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Guard of the Year. Katalin Honti is active member of the Hungarian National Team since 2008.

Cadi la Seu keeps Head Coach Andreu Bou - by Eurobasket News

Cadi la Seu announced that Head Coach Andreu Bou signed a one-year contract extension with the club. It will be his fourth consecutive season at this position. Cadi la Seu ended 2011/12 edition of LFB as seventh ranked team. They registered 13 wins in 26 games. It is considered as good result ad Cadi la Seu ended last few seasons from 10th to 12th places. Except Cadi la Seu, Andreu Bou also has experience from the Spanish youth National Team. He worked as Assistant Coach of the U16 NT two years ago. They competed at the European Championships U16 in Greece. It is expected now that Cadi la Seu starts with signing the players for the next season. There were no movements so far.

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TURKEY

19 candidates for Turkish NT named - by Eurobasket News

Head Coach of the Turkish National Team Ceyhun Yildizoglu announced list of 19 candidates for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The training camp starts in six days. Turkey will be the host of this tournament.

There are two naturalized players on this list. Nevin Nevlin and Quanitra Hollingsworth will fight for the spot in Turkish NT roster. The rule is that only one naturalized player can play for the country. Turkey is placed to Group A of the Qualifying Tournament. Their rivals are Japan and Puerto Rico. The main target for Turkey is to reach the Olympics in London.

Despite a late start to 2011-2012 season Mersin BSB guard Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) ended up becoming one of the top scorers as a domestic player and led the entire league in three point field goal percentage. The lightening quick Turkish international is hoping to help her nation make it to Olympic Games this summer and she has a lot to say about her next season plans

-Although you started the season a little late you averaged double digits and helped winless Mersin make it to the semi finals. Would you describe this year as your best ever season?

I could never say that it was my best season ever but I did whatever I could to get my team to the spot that we belong to. I had this injury the year before that I had to play on in the end of season. As you know there was the 2011 European Championship right after the Turkish League ended. First I was very afraid to keep playing despite my injury but then my national team management showed me great patience and care. They gave me the time I need to get better and experienced physio staff to work with me. I cant say enough how appreciated I am to them. Right now, we are about to play qualification games for the Olympic Games and Ill be part of this. Its a great feeeling. When the European Championship was over, I made the decision that I wasnt going play until my injury completely healed. I worked with Muratcan ner to keep me in shape and the national team Dr. Gkhan Metin and physiotherapist Haim Ay to keep me healthy. After a four month break I was ready to play all hungry :) Mersin Bykehir Belediyesi and some other teams wanted me to play for them. I made my desicion and went to play for Mersin where I played before just because I knew the people there and the experienced coach Zafer Kalaycolu who I also played for. They were losing all their games but as my coach and my new teammates, I knew we could do better and I think I was the missing link in the team. From the first week I went there we started playing better and winning. For me, it was very important to play better than ever because I showed lots of effort and patience before the season. It needed to be worth of something and I do believe it did. Mersin team finished the regular season at the fourth spot, made the semifinals in Turkish Cup and the Turkish League. Also I had one of the best stats of my career. Im very greatful

-You were one of the two Turkish players to score over 10 points a game and it was on %50 shooting from beyond the arc. Must be getting a lot of attention from the teams for the next season?

I think nobody guessed that I would show such a performance like this after the injury and the long break from basketball. I do believe I surprised people. So, even the season wasnt over I started getting offers for the next year. I couldnt respond to those before the season ended but the offers kept coming after the league finished. Im very happy and thankful for the offers. Im hoping to sign with one of these teams and have an even better year in the next season.

-Despite the big investments Turkish clubs cant get what they want in Euroleague. As an experienced player what do you think are the positive and negatives sides of nowadays Turkish basketball?

I think the investments made Turkish League and Turkish clubs the number one place for the players to play basketball in the world. While this situation brought the chance to Turkish players to play with/against the best players all over the world, it also gave basketball lovers to watch greater basketball in Turkey. Its been only 3-4 years we have been competing in the Euroleague finals and after all these years we finally had two teams playing the finals in Euroleague. So actually where we are at right now is a very big success. Unfortunately the real success doesnt come as quick as the investors , the clubs and players want. We have to be patient, learn from our mistakes and correct them every year. Also only one great player or the coach or the club cant bring the success were searching for. The success comes from the team game so we have to have them all and create a team that plays in one harmony. Im sure sooner or later, well get the Euroleague championship that were longing for

-Turkey surprisingly reached the silver medal in Eurobasket last year. Olympic games are ahead. How does it feel to be a member of the Turkish National Team?

You cant imagine how excited I am to be part of this organization. Its kind of once in a lifetime thing for me. And its also first time experience for our country to be in Olympic Games as a team sport of course if we can make the qualification tournament well play in June. Everybody would think that it was a surprise especially after our bad start to the tournament but as a team and staff we did believe that we were good enough and deserved to win a medal before we got to the tournament. As I said before the real success doesnt come very quickly but our federation was very patient and never quitted supporting us. I think the silver medal was a good beginning for us and of course were hoping to add new and more achivements to our success. Olympics will be a great chance to do this...

-What are your goals as a professional athlete? You played basketball both in the States and Turkey. Also won silver medal with national team. What else are missing?

For professional athletes, goals are usually endless. Yes I did have the silver medal with the national team at European Championship but now there is Olympic Games coming up and to be there and be able to win anything in our first time there would be the greatest goal achivement for me. Also the year after well be hosting the World Championship in our country. There is nothing bad bout winning more medals :) As a person, I love to experience new things. You mentioned that I played in USA and Turkey. I would love to get a chance to play abroad someday again and experience the competition and the new cultures. I hope its gonna happen soon :)

-Playing both guard positions require different physical and mental skills. As a combo guard what would you suggest to the upcoming youngsters?

As you say it can get tougher when you play the both positions during the game but its not something that will never change. I personally always try to learn and understand every position of basketball. This would always help you to create more options for your team, teammates and yourself in the game. Also knowing what you can do as much as knowing what your coach wants and what your teammates can do are important. This way it doesnt matter what position you play, you would always know what you need to do when the time comes. So we should never forget its a team sport and we have to work together for the better of yourself and the team.

-Most of the athletes complain about having not enough time for their social lives. Do you have any hobbies? What do you like to do outside of the gym?

Thanks to technology...! Everyday something new comes and makes my day more useful. Seriously, when you play two games in a week, youll be always busy with basketball. This way it doesnt matter what position you play. No time for your hobbies.. But now I can read my books, take pictures and create something new, stay connected to my family and my friends, watch the movies and listen to the music. So Im all happy. If I get any free time I always find myself on the road discovering some place new. I do love to experience new places and what comes with it such as new people, culture and food.

Fenerbahce eye Irina Osipova - by Eurobasket News

According to pota6.com Irina Osipova (196-C/F-81) can move to Fenerbahce. The Russian player will leave Spartak Moscow Region where she played for 7 seasons. Irina Osipova is Russian Center that actually in 2004 started for Elizur Ramla (Israel-D1). In 18 games she averaged 12.1ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.8spg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 53.0%. In her first season for Spartak Moscow Region her stats read 0.3ppg, 0.3rpg, 0.1apg in Russian League and in EuroCup 2.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 0.0apg.The season 2011-2012 for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region (PBL, starting five) she showed 6.4ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 50.0%, FT: 73.7% in EuroLeague and in Russian League had 7.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.4spg, Blocks-4 (1.3bpg), FGP: 50.7%, FT: 76.2%. Irina Osipova is also a Russian National Team member. Sokolovskiy included her for the Olympics. Fenerbahce already confirmed Matovic Ivana, McCoughtry Angel and Pondexter Cappie.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

The best 12 girls for next season.. talent, talent, talent - by David Edole

ST. CROIX-- It has become ritual to name the best twelve players for next season based on their past years performance. I think my list this year has been the hardest to put together but it is filled with the most talent ever. Edidiong Utibe (96) is the hands down the best player and should bring a boat load of universities to the territory. Oh by the way, I had a secret scout evaluate each player. These are the things the player would need to help them get to the next level. I hope you enjoy.

The Terrific 12 for next season are:

12. Sherrelle George, 5-5, G, Bertha C. Boschulte, Class of 2016Comment: BB as she is affectionately known as is a true grit player. She leaves it all out on the basketball court. Secret scout said: She was her teams main offensive weapon and was not selfish. As a point guard she continued to drive and dish and launched an occasional three pointer. She has the speed of her cousin Akia Frett and the will to win. She will be recruited heavily in four years.Needs: To stay focus and work on that outside shot.

11. Aniquah Swan, 5-9, G/F, Addeilta Cancryn, Class of 2016Comment: Swans coming out party was thrown at B.C.B March Madness Basketball Tournament. She was named MVP after pouring in 14 points to lead Cancryn over Charlotte Amalie, 34-24. Swan did something no one saw coming; she went in the paint and started to work. She threw her weight around and CAHS had no answer. Secret scout said: She is a definite DI prospect in the making. NEEDS: Like most girl players in the territory, conditioning is a major concern.

10. Renai Evans, 5-5, G, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2014Comment: Evans led the junior varsity team to their second consecutive territorial championship. Evans and Charlotte Amalie were undefeated for a year and 364 days but on the last day it was Swan. Secret scout said: Evans is cat quick and right hand dominant. She loves to play defense and is a great on ball defender.NEEDS: To diverse her game, learn to dribble with the left hand and expand shooting range.

9. Renique Francis, 5-7, F, Eudora Kean, Class of 2014Comment: The B.C.B alumni is learning the game of basketball. The year off from playing has showed and if she continues to play could be the second option behind of Akia Frett. Secret scout said: She can hit an occasional three-pointer and slashes to the basket where she can finish. She needs to play a lot of basketball. NEEDS: Conditioning, Confidence and put her whole game together.

8. Viniqua David, 5-8, G/F, GIFFT School, Class of 2014Comment: Ms. St. John does it all at GIFFT School. She led them in scoring, rebounding, assist, blocked shots and whatever category you could think off. David averaged 10 points a game and twice put up 15 points, against Ivanna Eudora Kean High School and Charlotte Amalie High School, the most she scored during a game last season. However, she has two more years to put it all together. She may be the best play from St. John since Lynia Liburd. Liburd went on to play at James Madison and Benedict College. NEEDS: Work Ethic, conditioning-Get in SHAPE!

7. KeAnna Mills, 5-5, G, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2014Comment: Her biggest asset is she is young to the game. Mills could develop into a capable point guard but has a lot of work to do. Secret scout said: Her court awareness is great and she is the sister of Ryan. So I expect her to have a big junior year.NEEDS: Play a lot of basketball, develop that left hand.

6. Raemisha Claxton, F, 5-9, Central High, Class of 2013Comment: The Wuk-up artist did not play well in the All Star Game. However she managed nine points on a bad shooting night. She needs to rediscover that mojo that had her as a starting forward on the Virgin Islands Junior womens team. Secret scout said: She is long and could develop into a big time ball player. Athletically gifted and a Jack-of-All trades. NEEDS: Conditioning, ball handling, especially her left hand, mid range jumper and needs to get stronger!

5. Germequa Bell, 5-9, G, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2013Comment: Bell had 13 points, four assists and three steals at the Sun Stroke Classic. She looked like the point guard Charlotte Amalie was looking and appears to be coming into her own. Secret scout said: Bell looked real good out there. She drove to the basket, created and distributed. Bell looked like she is ready for the next level. NEEDS: Conditioning

4. J'Lene Martinez,, 5-4, G, Central High, Class of 2014Comment: Sweet shooting! This girl could flat out shoot the basketball. I am going out on a limb and saying she will win the three point shooting contest three years in a row. Martinez had 22 points and handed Charlotte Amalie HS their only of the season, 46-43, at the Central High invitational. Secret scout said: She is an amazing shooter. That game against Charlotte Amalie was he coming out party. NEEDS: court awareness, ball handling, conditioning and defense.

3. Kadesha Barry, 5-8, G, Central High, Class of 2013Comment: One thing Ms. Barry knows how to do is play basketball. Her outside shot deserted her this year but her all around game was on display. At the all star game Barry led St. Croix with 14 points, five rebounds, three assists and three blocked shots. Secret scout said: Barry could be a great player. Talk about a stat sheet stuffer. I just have one question for Barry, where is the pump fake?NEEDS: Barry needs to make her right hand as explosive as her left. She needs to work on her outside Shot, mid and long range.

2. Akia Frett, 5-4, G, Eudora Kean, Class of 2014Comment: One Coach said, Mookie can flat out play. I agree with them, on offense she has all the tools. She can knock down the three-pointer, has a floater in the lane, knocks down free throws and is a great passer. Frett had Eudora Kean sitting in second place in the polls for most of the season. Secret scout said: Her anticipation to where the ball will be is amazing. This girl could play two games at a high level back to back. Her motor never stops!NEEDS: Continue to mature.

1. Edidiong Utibe, 6-foot-2, C, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2013Comment: Anyone who was at the Sun Strokes 14th Annual All V.I. Hoop Classic knows who Edi is. Last year Edi tallied 19 rebounds and scored 14 point, this year she put up 17s. Utibe is just a monster, said a coach in attendance. She loves to play physical basketball and uses her 6-foot-2, 210 pound frame to knock players around. Secret scout said: Her hands are awesome; she catches everything in traffic and can finish with both hands.NEEDS: Edi needs low post moves and work on free throw shooting.

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UKRAINE

Ukrainian National Team candidates announced - by Eurobasket News

Head Coach of the Ukrainian National Team Vadim Chechuro named 24 candidates for the EuroBasket 2013 Qualifications. The coach said all players have 50-50 chance to reach the final roster.

It is important to mention there is no Olesia Malashenko among the candidates. Ukraine is placed to Group A of the qualifications. Their rivals will be Israel, Belarus, Portugal and Hungary. Two best teams from this pool will book a spot for the EuroBasket. There are five qualification groups in total. Ukraine will open the qualifications on June 13 against Portugal. All home games Team Ukraine will play in Yuzhnyi. Qualifications will end on July 14.

In what is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated, competitive seasons the NorthEast Region has seen, all four teams look to have serious chances at winning the Title.

As Regular Season and Tournament Champions of the Region, any Title talk must begin with the Flint Lady Monarchs. Returning Co-MVP Natasha Morris (5'8''-G/F-88, agency: Dow Sports Management, college: St.Peter's), who is coming home from her initial Professional play abroad, should again be a force to be dealt with in the Region. Expect for returning players Nanyamka Moore (5'8''-G-87, agency: Dow Sports Management, college: IPFW), Leticia Luckett, and Tamarah Riley (6'2''-C-86, agency: Dow Sports Management, college: Ohio St.) to cause problems for opponents again this year as well. However the most interesting piece of the Flint puzzle is Troya Berry (6'2''-F-90) from Syarcuse. The post is a dominant presence that solidifies the frontcourt for the Monarchs.

The Cleveland Crush have reloaded and also re-signed much of the strong talent they already possessed, making them a prime candidate for a NorthEast Regional run of their own. Kelly Cunningham, Christina Estrict, and Erica Glover (5'5''-G, college: Akron) lead an already deep team full of talent from a year ago. With the key additions of Simone Jelks and Catherine Cain (5'11''-F, college: USC Aiken), look for Cleveland to be a serious threat to the title. This group doesn't have one huge, traditional post player, but it does have quality overall size and depth at almost all positions.

The Detroit Black Hawks bring back much of the same top tier talent they had last year, which should most certainly keep them in the Regional Title hunt as it always has in previous seasons. The team's roster starts with Co-MVP Joei Clyburn (6'1''-G/F-84, college: Xavier). Clyburn is quite possibly the most difficult matchup in the Region and quite possibly one of the toughest in the entire Nation. With quality, rugged play from Brittany Dorsey (5'9''-G/F-88) of Providence, Randall Hurst (6'0''-F-88, agency: Dow Sports Management, college: Fordham), Monique George (6'1''-C), Keniesha Moss, Kanisha Ward (5'6''-G-88, college: Wright St.), and the gang, look for Detroit to be right in the thick of things.

The Columbus Hidden Gems have revamped their roster somewhat in hopes of rekindling the fire from 2 years ago. From The Ohio State University, Star Allen (5'11''-F-85, college: Ohio St.) looks to be just that....a Star. She should be the main inside presence for the Hidden Gems. The backcourt tandem of Whitney Lindsay (5'7''-G-89, college: Indiana) (Big 10 Indiana U) & Brittany Smart (5'9''-G-85, college: Cedarville), who has put up awe-striking nunmbers in Sweden among other places, should be a tough one. Crystal Murdaugh (6'0''-G/F, college: N.Carolina A&T) & Michele Miller (5'11''-G-85, college: Xavier) look like more potential Pro's from the group. Columbus could get a late-season boost with the return of Ashleigh Brown (6'0''-F/G-87, college: Miami, OH) & Jeannie Saunders (5'8''-G-86, college: Salem Intern.) from Sweden too. <<>><<>>

* Brittany Smart (5'9''-G-85, college: Cedarville) - A stat-stuffing, versatile piece that will surely be a factor. Smart is an amazing catch for Columbus. The Cedarville, Belguim, and Sweden legend will be able to fill many holes.

* Tapre Young (5'11''-F/G-86, college: Salem Intern.) - Sharpshooter who has shot 40-50% from 3pt range for the vast majority of her basketball life. The savy vet will be needed again in 2012 for more of the same.

* Sherrie Griffin - High quality defense inside or out and still a few tricks up her sleeve on the block.

The Columbus Hidden Gems Reveal Half of The 2012 Final Roster! - by Lucius Jones

The Columbus Hidden Gems had a great run their first two seasons. In 2010, the Gems were the #1 team in WBCBL for the majority of the season until an Elite 8 National Tournament loss. However in 2011 The Columbus Hidden Gems experienced adversity for the first time ever and the record reflected it with a slightly below .500 finish. Well, the Hidden Gems seem to be back on the right path toward success with an amazing group of initial signings for the 2012 season:

***** Jeannie Saunders (5'8''-G-86, college: Salem Intern.) - Just finished her season in Sweden with the Visby Ladies to the tune of 18ppg 47%FG 37%3pt 75%FT 5rpg 3apg 3spg 1bpg showing no signs of the injury bug that bit her last year and prevented one of the WBCBL's finest from participating. All 1st Team everything in 2010 as well as Sweden's leadng scorer and Import POY, 'WestSide' seems poised for a big season.

***** Ashleigh Brown (6'0''-F/G-87, college: Miami, OH) - Another Pro Player from Visby who ended with 13ppg 48%FG 79%FT 11rpg 1apg 2spg 1bpg in Sweden's Top Division. 'AB,' The Mid Major D1 defensive stopper has diversified her already versatile game and should be ready for a big WBCBL year.

***** Whitney Lindsay (5'7''-G-89, college: Indiana) - A Big 10 4year player and 2year starter who averaged double figures just last season for Indiana. Also adding 4apg 3rpg 2spg Whitney displayed the huge professional potential she possesses in her small package. Look for the future pro to have an immediate impact in the full court pressure, uptempo style of the Gems.

***** Crystal Murdaugh (6'0''-G/F, college: N.Carolina A&T) - Another Hidden Gems who was hobbled by injuries last season. 'C-Murda' looks to build on the 4yr Mid Major D1 Starter status she acheived during her collegiate career and double the 5-7ppg and 3-5 rpg averages she accumulated in about 20mins per game. Another defensive hawk who can score and board with the best of them. Our Team Captain.

***** Star Allen (5'11''-F-85, college: Ohio St.) - A Big 10 double-double waiting to happen. Star is just that......a star. With numbers like 11ppg 54%FG 75%FT 8rpg at The Ohio State University and 15ppg & 8rpg in Portugal, The Gems have no doubt, Allen will prosper in 2012.

***** Michele Miller (5'11''-G-85, college: Xavier) - An A-10 pickup that will be awesome. With collegiate numbers like 10ppg 48%FG 6rpg 2apg 2spg at Xavier and quality output in Germany too, Columbus is happy to have such a quality piece on the team. Her size and versatility is highly valued.

***** Tina Huff (6'5''-C) - After coming in #7 in the Nation in Division 1 basketball her Senior season, Tina has blocked shots and boarded in Estonia, Denmark, Iran, Romania, and more. The 6'6 Center is over a sprained knee injury she played with last year too.

Look for 5 more signings from the Columbus Hidden Gems and a return back to the top of the standings in the WBCBL in 2012.

Connecticut Sun hosted New York Liberty in a friendly game last night. The home squad celebrated 96-81 victory. NY Liberty had impressive start as they made 16-25 lead in the first ten minutes, but Connecticut took control on them after that. The hosts created 30-12 in Q2 and later in Q4 secured comfortable win. Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) and Kalana Greene (5'10''-G-87, college: Connecticut) scored 12 points each for Connecticut. Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) followed them with 11. In the loosing squad, Kara Braxton (6'6''-C-83, college: Georgia) shined with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebs. Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) scored 16 points, while Katelan Redmon (6'1''-G/F-88) and Demya Walker (6'4''-F/C-77, college: Virginia) stopped to 10 points each. There will be another friendly game today. The Phoenix Mercury will meet Japanese National Team.

Guards Seimone Augustus and Lindsay Whalen were in camp for the first time.

'All your offenses look a lot better when you throw the ball to Seimone and she can score it,' Reeve said after Friday's practice.

Reeve was joking with Augustus the first day, like two old friends who had re-united.

'We told her, you win a championship and you are the MVP of the [WNBA] Finals and you get your own shoe,' Reeve said. 'So you guys [TV cameramen] got to make sure you get a shot of her shoes, [with] Money Mone on it. She has that swag about her, Money Mone.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Shock waves Marshae Dotson - by Eurobasket News

The Tulsa Shock has waived Marshae Dotson (5'11''-F-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: Florida), bringing the training camp roster down to 14, the team announced today.

Veteran guard Temeka Johnson is expected to make her camp debut this Tuesday May 8 which will bring the training camp roster back up to 15 players. Johnson was acquired by the Shock in an off-season trade with the Phoenix Mercury.

Johnson, a 53 point guard, started 30 games for the Mercury last year, averaging 6.4 points and 4.4 assists in 23.9 minutes a game. In seven seasons in the WNBA, Johnson has started 181 of the 198 games she has played in and is averaging 7.9 points and 4.5 assists in 24.9 minutes a game. She helped lead the Phoenix Mercury to the 2009 WNBA Championship over the Indiana Fever in five games.

Courtesy of www.gtrnews.com

Maya Moore returns to Lynx as more aggressive player - by Eurobasket News

After she was named the WNBA's Rookie of the Year and the Lynx won the league title last year, Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) went to Spain. Not for a vacation -- for more basketball.

Ros Casares, based in Valencia, went 48-2, winning the Spanish league and EuroLeague titles. Moore played in 28 of those games starting in January, only one a loss.

So Moore's basketball rsum, a month shy of her 23rd birthday, reads like this: three high school state titles in Georgia, two NCAA titles at the University of Connecticut, one World Championships title, one WNBA title, two overseas titles with a chance at two more championships this year.

Moore, a 6-foot forward, is one of three Lynx on the U.S. team playing in the London Summer Olympics. And the Lynx, of course, could become the first WNBA team to win back-to-back titles since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2001 and '02.

'It could be luck,' said Lynx assistant coach Shelley Patterson, asked about the success of Moore's teams. 'She could be our lucky charm. If it happens with the Olympics and it happens again this year with us, I am going to have to rub her shoulder and go play the lottery.'

Moore would laugh at that remark. She has an appealing sense of humor and a mature perspective on life.

'I try to do a good job of focusing my attention on the important things, not listening to a lot of hype,' Moore said. 'I always try to represent [myself] well as a person who has been blessed with a lot of gifts and a lot of opportunities.'

As soon as Moore arrived in training camp a year ago, practices became more intense.

Moore is determined to improve in her second pro season. She wants to be a better shooter, a smarter passer and a tougher defender.

Patterson said at media day on Monday that Moore, after five days of training camp, looks like a changed player.

'Her balance is much better,' Patterson said. 'She is getting stronger in going to the paint and not shying away. When she came in last year, she was more of a finesse player.'

Moore shot 53.3 percent from the field in EuroLeague games and 47.2 percent on threes in the Spanish league -- both those statistics are more than 10 percent higher than her numbers as a Lynx player.

'Playing overseas has helped me,' Moore said. 'I'm just having the ball in my hands a little bit more. Just continuing to get comfortable at the pro level as far as the speed and where I am scoring from.'

'Her shot selection wasn't great last year,' Patterson said. 'That had something to do with her field-goal percentage. Now she has a better understanding of our team, an understanding of what we need from her.'

Moore averaged 13.2 points as a Lynx rookie but was inconsistent. Five times in a regular-season game she scored 20 points or more; seven times she had seven or fewer.

'I don't think the roles [on the Lynx] are necessarily going to change,' said Moore, the only WNBA rookie in 2011 to start every game, 'because it worked so well last year.'

Moore said the good memories and feelings from last year came back upon her arrival in the Twin Cities.

She is one of five returning starters, including two other soon-to-be Olympians, Seimone Augustus and Lindsay Whalen. Augustus is 28. Whalen turns 30 on Wednesday, a milestone Rebekkah Brunson has already reached. Taj McWilliams-Franklin is 41, the oldest player in the league.

'When you have veterans on your team, you want to play well for them because they don't have many years left.' Moore said. '... That is what you want when you are that age. Not that you want to make them sound super old -- this is not going well -- you know what I mean.'